Context:

A group of major liberal foundations is attempting to raise $250 million to support civil organizations confronting what they perceive as President Trump's authoritarian tendencies. This initiative, led by Deepak Bhargava and supported by the MacArthur Foundation's John Palfrey, aims to fund nonpartisan nonprofits involved in legal challenges, activist safety, and media support. The effort is shrouded in secrecy to avoid attracting negative attention from the Trump administration, reflecting a broader strategy in political philanthropy to balance publicity and discretion. Despite some internal criticisms about the allocation of resources, the plan is to establish a collaborative network to amplify the impact of the funds. The Freedom Together foundation, previously known as the JPB Foundation, is at the center of this initiative, with plans to significantly increase its annual payout rate to support democracy-related activities.

Dive Deeper:

• The initiative seeks to raise $250 million to aid civil groups opposing President Trump, focusing on nonpartisan nonprofits that engage in lawsuits, provide activist security, or support media organizations.

• Led by Deepak Bhargava and supported by John Palfrey of the MacArthur Foundation, the effort aims to form a collaborative network of foundations to pool resources and enhance their impact.

• The campaign is conducted in secrecy to prevent potential retaliation from the Trump administration, highlighting the delicate balance between fundraising and avoiding political backlash.

• Some Democrats have criticized the focus on nonpartisan nonprofits, suggesting that funds could also support voter registration and other activities that indirectly aid progressive causes.

• Freedom Together, with assets of approximately $3 billion, plans to increase its payout rate significantly, reflecting the urgency of the situation and the need to support democracy-related activities.

• The initiative includes projects like the Courage Project, which provides awards for 'civic bravery', and Beacon, a response team for those facing retaliation due to opposition to Trump’s policies.

• Deepak Bhargava, with a background in community organizing and progressive philanthropy, is spearheading the effort to create a 'mega-collaborative' entity to address significant gaps in democracy support.