Democrat-linked super PAC funds third-party candidates in key swing races

Principled Patriots PAC, a super PAC that Republicans allege is connected to Democratic interests, is financing third-party candidates in a series of closely contested Senate races, including Iowa, Texas, Alaska, Kansas, Ohio and Michigan, and in tight House contests such as those in Colorado and North Carolina. Federal Election Commission filings show the PAC received a $250,000 contribution from Building America, a super PAC linked to the Democratic-aligned nonprofit Rapid Resist Action, which donated $25,000 to Building America in June and has given $1.7 million to it in 2024.

Rapid Resist Action is associated with activists David Slifka and Yonatan Landau, who work on Democratic fundraising and recruiting efforts in traditionally Republican rural districts. Iowa Republicans, including Senate nominee Rep. Ashley Hinson, warned that the money is intended to act as a spoiler, dividing the Republican vote and helping Democratic candidate Josh Turek in the race to replace Sen. Joni Ernst. The PAC is also supporting third-party Senate candidate Thomas Laehn in Iowa. No comment was obtained from Principled Patriots.