Dark Money is a political thriller documentary that focuses on the impact of anonymous corporate donations on US elections. The film explores how the 2010 Citizens United ruling by the Supreme Court has opened the floodgates for unlimited corporate and special interest money to be funneled into American political campaigns, often without any transparency or accountability.
The documentary centers on the experiences of investigative journalist John Adams, who uncovered a complex network of dark money flowing into Montana during the state's 2012 elections. Adams' reporting led to the revelation of illegal campaign activities by a Republican state representative who had received millions of dollars in anonymous funding. The scandal ultimately forced Montana to pass tough new transparency laws that have since been upheld by the courts.
The film also examines the broader impact of dark money on American democracy, including how it has helped to fuel political polarization, erode public trust in government, and undermine the rule of law. Through interviews with politicians, activists, and legal experts, Dark Money makes a compelling case for the need to reform campaign finance laws and protect the integrity of American elections.
