Senate Progressives Demand Ban on Dark Money in Democratic Primaries

The push arrives as the party grapples with the aftermath of losing the White House and both chambers of Congress. In a letter to DNC Chair Ken Martin and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, the senators labeled the 2010 Citizens United decision a catastrophe that has allowed billions in unaccountable spending to flood federal elections. According to the Brennan Center for Justice, such groups have funneled at least $4.3 billion into federal races since that ruling.

Cleaning House

The group, which includes Sens. Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey, and Jeff Merkley, highlighted Arizona’s recent resolution to bar super PAC interference as a viable model. They contend that relying on such funding not only undermines democratic integrity but also allows outside interests to defeat incumbent Democrats in general elections. The senators underscored the urgency of this reform by pointing to the $270 million spent by Elon Musk to support Donald Trump’s recent election victory, a figure they cite as evidence of a system rigged by the ultra-wealthy.

While Schumer has previously characterized the reversal of Citizens United as a priority for the party, these senators argue that waiting for federal legislative reform is insufficient. They are demanding immediate internal policy shifts, urging the DNC to adopt enforcement procedures that prevent candidates from benefiting from, or becoming dependent on, independent electioneering spending. This move coincides with broader efforts by Sanders to refocus the party on working-class priorities following recent electoral losses.