Democrats want to be the party that rejects corporate spending and big money influence on politics. They also want to compete with billionaires like Elon Musk, who are pumping money into Republican campaigns.
As the party gears up to elect new leadership, its ranks are grappling with how to strike that balance — with some Democratic National Committee members openly calling for Democrats to seek big money donors.
“It makes no sense to tie one hand behind our back and put ourselves at a disadvantage if our opponents on the other side of the aisle have more resources,” Rep. Marilyn Strickland told NOTUS. “The reality of how you win elections in the U.S. right now is that you have to have money to get your message out. We need to be open to any organization or individual who wants to donate to our cause.”