Polluting Democracy - Floodlight

Polluting Democracy

Florida GOP operative admits role in ‘ghost’ candidate scheme that defeated utility-targeted Dem

A Republican consultant's deposition reveals he OK’d the plan to run a third-party candidate to defeat Florida Power & Light nemesis.

Polluting Democracy

Revealed: FirstEnergy gave $1 million to boost Ohio Lt. Gov. campaign before scandal

Records show Jon Husted worked behind the scenes to bail out the company’s nuclear power plants. The million dollar donation was secret — until now.

Polluting Democracy

‘What corruption gets you’: How utility companies bought support in the Black south

A joint investigation by Floodlight and Capital B shows millions of dollars flowed from utilities to Black leaders and their groups since at least 2009.

Polluting Democracy

How a utility’s silent spending to control energy policy might determine abortion rights in Florida

Over the past five years, the largest power company in the U.S. quietly financed groups working to restrict Floridians’ ability to change laws independent of the legislature.

Polluting Democracy

Maine power companies are spending millions to defeat a vote to dethrone them

This fall, Mainers could cut ties with their utilities. The companies are buying influence to try to stay in power.

Polluting Democracy

Power companies quietly pushed $215m into US politics via dark money groups

Donations have helped utilities increase electricity prices, hinder solar schemes and helped elect sympathetic legislators.

Polluting Democracy

Ohio Republicans accused of taking $60 million in bribes as corruption trial opens

Prosecutors built their racketeering case with wiretaps, undercover agents and confidential sources.