Bernie Sanders Under Fire After Payments to Stepson Come to Light

Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) is facing renewed scrutiny after financial records revealed that his stepson, David Driscoll, has received an estimated $800,000 since 2018 through the Sanders Institute, a nonprofit organization founded by Sanders’ wife, Jane O’Meara Sanders.

Driscoll, who serves as the executive director of the Sanders Institute, was paid approximately $150,000 in 2023, according to public filings.

The organization, registered as a 501(c)(3), brings in between $200,000 and $300,000 annually through contributions and grants, raising questions about how it funds its staff and operations.

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The Sanders Institute was co-founded by Jane Sanders and Driscoll in 2017.

It describes its mission as promoting “progressive voices” and revitalizing democratic engagement.

“The purpose is to revitalize democracy in the support of progressive institutions,” Jane Sanders told The Washington Post.

“Our feeling is at our point in time, our country is at a crossroads, and people are engaged in a political process that can be opaque.”

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“A vital democracy requires an informed electorate, civil discourse, and bold thinking,” she added.

“So we put together this team to focus on issues, but not in a partisan way, not in a way that just focuses on the latest crazy thing. It will not be about Trump; it will be about the issues facing the country.”

Despite its stated goals, the nonprofit’s 2021 tax filings show that nearly 40% of its revenue went toward salaries, while it did not list any specific accomplishments or projects.

The organization’s small revenue base and sizable compensation for staff—particularly Driscoll—have attracted attention from watchdog groups and critics.

Adding to the scrutiny, records from the Federal Election Commission show that in 2023, Bernie Sanders’ campaign committee transferred $200,000 to the Sanders Institute.

The payment was not publicly announced and drew criticism for its timing, as Sanders continued his public criticism of corporate and political influence in government.

The revelations come as Sanders continues his nationwide “Fighting Oligarchy” tour, where he promotes economic reforms and frequently speaks out against what he calls “the billionaire class” and the concentration of wealth in America.

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The tour is linked to his most recent book, which criticizes capitalism and economic inequality.

Tickets for the book tour reportedly cost as much as $95 per person.

While Sanders has long positioned himself as a champion for working-class Americans, recent financial disclosures have reignited debate over his personal wealth.

According to financial statements, Sanders has amassed a net worth of over $3 million during his time in public office, largely through book deals and investments.

David Driscoll has been affiliated with the Sanders Institute since its founding and has been on the organization’s payroll since at least 2018.

While there are no laws prohibiting family members from working in nonprofits, the financial relationship between Sanders’ campaign, his family, and the nonprofit raises questions about potential conflicts of interest.

The Sanders Institute has not responded to requests for comment. Neither Senator Sanders nor Driscoll has addressed the financial disclosures publicly.

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