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THE BILLION-DOLLAR DONORS

BEHIND THE 2026 ELECTION CYCLE

A small group of wealthy donors is once again dominating campaign fundraising. New campaign finance data shows that just 50 individuals have contributed more than $1.3 billion during the 2026 election cycle.

Federal Election Commission records show the top donors have given a combined $1.368 billion so far. Republican-aligned donors account for about $884 million, Democratic-aligned donors roughly $284 million, and another $200 million has gone to bipartisan organizations and special-interest groups.

Most of this money flows through super PACs, which can accept unlimited donations under the campaign finance system established after the Supreme Court's 2010 Citizens United ruling.

Supporters view these contributions as protected political speech, while critics argue they give a small number of wealthy individuals outsized influence over American elections. With control of Congress on the line this November, campaign spending is expected to climb even higher.

Meet the megadonors pouring more than $1.3 billion into the 2026 election (The Washington Post, 6-25-26)