The Daily

Millions of Dollars, Thousands of Robocalls and 1 Legal Loophole

8 snips
May 25, 2023
David A. Fahrenthold, an investigative reporter for The New York Times, unveils a scandal where Republican operatives raised $89 million via deceptive robocalls, masked as support for veterans and first responders. He examines how the funds were largely funneled back to the firms making the calls, exploiting legal loopholes. The discussion highlights the unsettling reality of political nonprofits, revealing a cycle of emotional manipulation and accountability gaps that deceive donors while benefiting insiders.
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ANECDOTE

Repeated Donor

  • Louise McConkie donated 35 times, totaling $3,650, to the five nonprofits.
  • She was unaware that only 1% of her donations went to the promised causes.
INSIGHT

Misused Funds

  • Only 1% of the $89 million raised went to political causes.
  • 90% went back into fundraising, creating a self-sustaining system.
INSIGHT

Masterminds

  • The operation was orchestrated by three individuals: John Connors, Kyle Mikeley, and Simon Lewis.
  • They started in Wisconsin campus Republican politics and had minor political roles.
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