Endorsing Candidates? Nonprofits Can’t Do It
With the elections just three months away and passions running high, it’s important for our project leaders and staff – and all nonprofit leaders – to be reminded that they are prohibited by IRS rules from publicly endorsing, or opposing, any candidate for public office while acting in the capacity of the project. This is true for all levels of office – from presidential candidate to neighborhood council member.
Nonprofits can, however, encourage voting and advocate for causes and legislation. Bolder Advocacy, a program of the Alliance for justice, is a helpful resource for navigating your organization's role in nonpartisan advocacy. They maintain up-to-date information to help guide you through the rules of advocacy as they relate to influencing legislation, ballot measures, electoral activity, executive and administrative advocacy, and litigation. To make sure you’re playing by the rules:
- Research a nonprofit's role in advocacy before engaging in lobbying or election activity
- Refrain from supporting or opposing candidates via your organization’s social media, email, or website
- Don’t allow politicians to promote themselves at your events
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