President Trump has directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate potential foreign interference and fraudulent donations in U.S. federal elections, focusing on the Democratic fundraising platform ActBlue. This move follows Republican concerns about illicit contributions during the 2024 election cycle, including donations from foreign IP addresses and the use of “straw donors”—individuals who contribute on behalf of others.
A House committee staff report highlighted that ActBlue had previously allowed donations without requiring card verification values (CVVs), a standard security measure. Internal documents revealed that between September and October 2024, at least 237 overseas transactions using prepaid cards were flagged. Additionally, ActBlue employees were reportedly instructed to “look for reasons to accept contributions,” raising questions about the platform’s fraud prevention practices.
Wisconsin GOP strategist Mark Block filed a lawsuit claiming his identity was stolen to make 385 unauthorized donations to liberal groups, including then-Vice President Kamala Harris’ super PAC. ActBlue, which has facilitated over $16 billion in donations since its inception in 2004, played a significant role in Harris’ 2024 campaign, raising $46.7 million.
In response to the investigation, ActBlue stated that the Trump administration’s actions are a politically motivated attack on democracy. The organization emphasized its commitment to providing a secure fundraising platform for grassroots donors and vowed to pursue all legal avenues to defend itself.
The Attorney General is expected to report findings within 180 days as the administration continues efforts to safeguard election integrity.
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