Democrats Launch 'Democracy Defenders' Super PAC to Combat Election Undermining Threats by Trump Allies

Democratic strategists are establishing a new super PAC called Democracy Defenders to support the party’s election protection and potential disputes after Election Day. The group anticipates that former President Donald Trump and his allies will attempt to undermine confidence in the election before November 5 and challenge the election outcomes in court after voting.

Democratic leadership and strategy 

The super PAC will be chaired by Jim Messina, former campaign manager for President Barack Obama's 2012 reelection campaign. Norm Eisen, a Democratic attorney and co-counsel during Trump's first impeachment, will serve as outside counsel. TJ Ducklo, a former aide to President Joe Biden, will be the PAC’s chief strategist, and Allegra Lawrence-Hardy will be the chief legal advisor.

Democracy Defenders aims to raise and spend unlimited funds to support legal efforts and public messaging. The group plans to collaborate with state parties and allied groups to counter what they perceive as an unprecedented assault on the right to vote.

Resource Allocation and Goals

The PAC has an initial budget of $10 million for legal work and public messaging, with plans to raise additional funding. The goal is to provide resources to state parties and allies to ensure every American can vote confidently and without interference.

Past Protection Efforts and Current Fears

The Democrats' voter protection effort in the 2020 campaign aimed to ensure easy access to voting despite the public health crisis. The current efforts are driven by the fear that Republicans are better prepared to take legal action to challenge results.

Plans Beyond Election Day

PAC officials intend to lead efforts after Election Day to counter attempts to cast doubt on the results and continue supporting small-D democratic initiatives post-Inauguration Day.