National Action Network: Where Did the Money Go?
The Harris campaign cut two checks—$250,000 each—to Al Sharpton’s National Action Network (NAN) in September and October 2024. Campaign insiders framed it as payment for “field outreach, voter‑registration, and event logistics in urban precincts.” Yet MSNBC staff bristled when Sharpton later hosted a softball interview with Harris, never disclosing the payment. New York Post
Possible legal land mines:
Charitable Diversion. FECA allows charitable donations only if they defray campaign costs. If NAN used funds for unrelated community programs—or Sharpton’s salary—that could violate 11 C.F.R. §113.1(g) (personal use).
Coordinated Communication. If NAN’s “voter outreach” included express advocacy and was coordinated, the entire $500,000 becomes an in‑kind contribution subject to contribution caps—far exceeding limits.
IRS Compliance. As a 501(c)(4), NAN must report political activity. Large, undisclosed campaign expenditures could jeopardize tax‑exempt status.
