Embedded Files
Significant financial influence enters politics or governance without transparency, whether through undisclosed donors, hidden campaign spending, or vendor side payments.
Why It Matters
Prevents citizens from knowing who is influencing decisions.
Encourages corruption behind the veil of secrecy.
Reduces accountability for conflicts of interest.
Tell-Tale Signs
Sudden funding surges without clear source.
Vendors or donors benefit disproportionately from decisions.
Disclosure reports incomplete or difficult to access.
Examples Across Levels
Local: Management companies fund board candidates quietly.
State: Political action committees (PACs) shield true donors.
Federal: “Dark money” groups spend millions without disclosure.
Countermeasures
Mandate robust financial disclosures.
Require vendor transparency in contracting.
Close loopholes that allow anonymous contributions.
Related Patterns
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