Groups Warn Funding Shortfalls Could Depress Midterm Turnout

Several major left-leaning voter engagement and racial justice organizations are facing significant funding shortfalls and staffing cuts as voting begins in midterm elections that will determine control of Congress for the final two years of President Trump’s term. Democratic strategists fear the reductions could weaken voter registration, turnout efforts and election-protection work, particularly in communities of color. America Votes, a coordinating network of more than 400 progressive groups, says its funding is well below its level during the 2022 midterms. Organizers attribute the decline partly to reduced support from wealthy donors and philanthropic groups since the 2024 presidential election, while some funders say they are pursuing different strategies. Advocates warn that the retreat is limiting their ability to mobilize voters and respond to potential election interference or voting restrictions, though they say there is still a narrowing window to act.