Americans for Public Trust urges crackdown on foreign money in U.S. nonprofits

The watchdog group Americans for Public Trust (APT) is calling on U.S. lawmakers and governors to investigate the flow of foreign funds into American nonprofits. APT has launched the FollowForeignMoney.org database, which reportedly catalogs over $5 billion flowing from foreign governments, nationals, and charities into U.S.-based nonprofits since 2002.

APT Executive Director Caitlin Sutherland stated, “The information is available. The threat is real,” urging officials to determine if current laws sufficiently prevent foreign actors from indirectly influencing political outcomes. While federal law prohibits foreign nationals from making direct contributions to U.S. elections, APT notes that funds can still reach political activities through tax-exempt organizations, advocacy groups, and voter registration efforts.

One identified source is Swiss billionaire Hansjörg Wyss, whose associated nonprofits, including the Wyss Foundation and Berger Action Fund, have reportedly directed significant sums toward progressive advocacy groups in the United States.