ACLU to Spend $25M in Midterm Elections

The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) announced on Monday a $25 million investment to inform voters about key races and ballot measures in states ahead of the November election, marking one of its largest voter education efforts in recent years. The funding, drawn from the organization’s reserves and donations, will support initiatives targeting state Supreme Court contests and other elections where issues such as reproductive rights, voting access, and LGBTQ+ protections are central. The ACLU emphasized its goal of countering misinformation and ensuring voters receive accurate information, particularly in battleground states where judicial decisions could shape legal protections nationwide.

Of the $25 million, $13 million will be allocated in partnership with the ACLU’s Voter Education Fund to focus on state Supreme Court races, which the organization views as critical to safeguarding civil liberties. An additional $12 million will address other races and ballot measures, including initiatives on voting rights and healthcare access in states like Georgia, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. The ACLU highlighted that these states have seen heightened political activity around judicial appointments and policy changes, with state courts increasingly deciding contentious issues that federal courts have sidestepped. The campaign will leverage digital advertising, community outreach, and partnerships with local groups to amplify its reach.

The ACLU’s move reflects a broader strategy to influence the political landscape through informed voter engagement, particularly as midterm elections often determine the balance of power in state governments. With the November ballot featuring over 200 state Supreme Court races and numerous policy-focused measures, the organization’s investment underscores its commitment to shaping judicial outcomes and legislative priorities that align with its civil rights agenda. The funding announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of how outside groups are mobilizing resources to sway elections amid a polarized political climate.