Glossary

Dark money

A label for political spending by groups, such as certain nonprofits, that do not have to disclose the original donors.

Also called: undisclosed political spending, 501(c)(4) spending

"Dark money" is a term for money spent to influence elections when the sources are not disclosed to the public. It typically describes spending by tax-exempt nonprofits, such as 501(c)(4) social-welfare groups and some trade associations, which may engage in political activity as long as it is not their primary purpose and are not required to reveal donors in the way campaigns and PACs are.

The term became widely used after Citizens United v. FEC in 2010. Donors can give to such a group, which can then spend on ads about issues or candidates or give to a Super PAC, so the original source stays hidden. The Federal Election Commission requires disclosure for certain "electioneering communications," but loopholes remain. Spending is reported by outside trackers using available data.

Supporters of anonymity, including many conservatives and civil-liberties groups, cite the First Amendment right to association and privacy, pointing to NAACP v. Alabama (1958), which protected membership lists from disclosure, and to fears of harassment. Critics, especially Democrats and reform groups, argue that voters deserve to know who is paying and that secrecy invites corruption. Both left- and right-leaning groups use these organizations. Proposals like the DISCLOSE Act have not become law.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

In the index now

Related terms

Super PAC A political committee that can raise unlimited sums to support or oppose candidates but may not coordinate with them or give them money. Political action committee An organization that raises and spends money from members or donors to support or oppose candidates, subject to federal limits. Citizens United v. FEC The 2010 Supreme Court ruling that the First Amendment bars limits on independent political spending by corporations and unions. Compelled speech The First Amendment principle that the government generally cannot force people to express messages they disagree with.