Democrats increase examination of super PACs as part of analysis of 2024 election

As Democrats analyze the 2024 presidential race, party leaders are closely examining how super PACs could be leveraged more effectively in future campaigns. Traditionally, a single super PAC has been designated as the primary recipient of donor support, with other organizations discouraged from participating. In 2024, Future Forward was the preferred super PAC for President Biden and Vice President Harris. However, even before Harriss loss, the PAC faced criticism from within the party for holding most of its funds until the campaign's final stages.

Democrats are now exploring a broader approach, potentially involving multiple super PACs to assist candidates more collaboratively. It became clear in 2024 that concentrating power in one super PAC is not ideal, said Democratic strategist Karen Finney. Instead of directing funds through one or two organizations, why not involve ten?

This reassessment occurs alongside a larger review of the partys spending strategies. During the 2024 campaign, some Democratic strategists privately questioned Future Forwards approach, particularly its decision to postpone significant ad spending until late in the cycle. Critics noted that while the PAC held a large reserve, it did little to shape voter perceptions early, even as polling indicated Trump leading in key states.

Much of Future Forwards resources were devoted to costly advertisements in the final months rather than earlier in the campaign. Experienced operatives argued that early ad placement is more cost-effective and critical for influencing voter decisions, noting that delaying ad campaigns until the fall was counterproductive.

Other Democrats emphasized the need to promote the administrations accomplishments earlier, ensuring voters were better informed about policy successes. We had a financial advantage and should have used it strategically throughout the cycle, one source explained.

Meanwhile, Priorities USA, a major super PAC in past elections, is positioning itself amid dissatisfaction with Future Forward. The organization is advocating for a decentralized approach, encouraging multiple super PACs to share responsibility rather than relying on a single entity. Danielle Butterfield, executive director of Priorities USA, stated, Relying on one super PAC to dictate spending wastes the collective expertise available across the party.

Other strategists, including Steve Schale of Unite the Country, support a multi-PAC ecosystem, noting that Republicans have successfully used such systems. Why not create a structure that brings more skilled people into the process? Schale asked.

Critics of Future Forward highlighted that its messaging was not tailored to local communities or state-specific concerns, diminishing its impact. Voter priorities in Philadelphia differ from those in Madison, Oklahoma City, and Chicago, Finney noted.

Many donors, still reflecting on the 2024 outcome, agree that reform is necessary. The previous system clearly doesnt work. Concentrating authority in one super PAC is not effective, said one prominent Democratic donor.

Author: Benjamin Carter