Sanders Calls for Ban on Super PACs in Democratic Primaries

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I‑Vt.) on Sunday urged Democratic leaders to prohibit super PAC involvement in the party’s primary elections, sending a letter to Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Democratic National Committee chair Ken Martin. The Vermont senator argued that independent expenditure groups have “unduly influenced” the primary process, diverting attention from grassroots organizing and amplifying the voice of wealthy donors.

The correspondence, which calls for a formal ban on super PAC activity in Democratic primaries, cites recent spending data showing that outside groups have poured millions into primary contests, often shaping candidate narratives and voter outreach. Sanders’ request arrives as the party prepares for upcoming presidential and congressional primaries, prompting Democratic officials to consider reforms that could limit outside money while preserving First Amendment protections. The leaders addressed have not yet responded publicly, and the proposal adds to ongoing debates within the party about campaign finance rules and the role of money in elections.