Probe expands into Actblue fundraising practices across 19 states

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An investigation into the online fundraising platform ActBlue has now expanded to 19 states, with attorneys general pressing the company on its security measures and potential misuse of donations. The investigation, which began with just a few states and a House committee, is examining whether Democrats may have used the platform to funnel foreign money or make "straw donations"—using other people's names without their consent.

A letter sent to ActBlue CEO Regina Wallace-Jones by state attorneys general highlights concerns over the accuracy of ActBlue's Federal Election Commission (FEC) filings, suggesting possible money laundering practices such as "smurfing," where large donations are broken up and submitted under different names.

ActBlue has denied any wrongdoing and said it is cooperating with investigators, insisting that it maintains rigorous security measures and fraud prevention protocols. Despite this, the investigation continues, with some Americans considering private lawsuits after discovering donations were made in their names without their knowledge.

The states leading the investigation include Iowa and Indiana, with participation from 17 other states. ActBlue is required to respond by October 23. Congress is also examining whether financial institutions have flagged any suspicious transactions on the platform.