ActBlue

ActBlue is a nonprofit political action committee and fundraising platform that processes online contributions for Democratic candidates, progressive-aligned independent candidates, left-leaning organizations, and nonprofits. Founded in 2004, the platform acts as a conduit, meaning it does not raise funds itself but provides the technological infrastructure for donors to give directly to campaigns and causes. By 2025, ActBlue had processed over $16 billion in donations, becoming a central pillar of Democratic fundraising. The platform serves more than 28 million users and supports candidates at every level, from presidential contenders to school board members, as well as ballot measure campaigns and advocacy groups.

ActBlue operates under three distinct legal entities: the 527 PAC (ActBlue), the 501(c)(4) social welfare organization (ActBlue Civics), and the 501(c)(3) public charity (ActBlue Charities, formed in 2015). This structure allows it to support a broad range of political and charitable activities while complying with campaign finance laws. The organization is headquartered in Somerville, Massachusetts, and employs a team focused on building technology for progressive fundraising.

The platform's revenue comes primarily from optional tips that donors can add to their contributions, which fund ActBlue's operations. This model has enabled millions of small-dollar donations to compete with large contributions from wealthy donors and PACs. ActBlue has been credited with democratizing political giving, though it has also faced scrutiny over transparency and regulatory compliance, including a federal investigation launched in 2025. [edit]

ActBlue's stated mission is to build technology and infrastructure for Democratic campaigns and progressive-aligned causes to fuel long-term, people-powered change. The organization believes democracy works best when campaigns and organizations are powered by those they serve, and it strives to foster a safe and equitable democracy built by and for the people. [edit]

ActBlue was founded in 2004 by Benjamin Rahn and Matt DeBergalis, who initially described it as an experiment by two friends wanting to finance progressive causes. The website officially launched that year, processing contributions for left-wing nonprofits and PACs. In 2005, Jonathan Zucker and Erin Hill joined the founding team, with Zucker taking over as executive director in 2007 and Hill replacing him in 2009.

The platform grew steadily through the 2000s, but its impact exploded during the 2016 and 2018 election cycles, when small-dollar donations surged. By the 2019-2020 cycle, ActBlue processed $4.318 billion in revenue, reflecting the rise of grassroots fundraising. In 2015, the organization formed ActBlue Charities as a 501(c)(3) entity to expand its charitable work. In 2023, Regina Wallace-Jones succeeded Erin Hill as president and CEO, becoming the first person of color to lead the organization. As of 2025, ActBlue faces a federal investigation, though it continues to operate and process donations. [edit]