Stacey Abrams’ nonprofit faces a historic fine for misusing funds during her 2018 gubernatorial campaign in Georgia
Atlanta: A nonprofit started by Stacey Abrams just got hit with a hefty $300,000 fine. The New Georgia Project was found to have illegally used funds to support her 2018 run for governor.
They spent around $3.2 million on canvassers and promotional materials without properly disclosing it. The ethics commission in Georgia wrapped up a six-year investigation with this fine.
Aria Branch, a lawyer for the nonprofit, expressed relief, saying they can now focus on their mission to engage and register voters. They’re eager to move on from past issues.
However, the New Georgia Project didn’t register as a campaign committee, which is a big no-no. The ethics panel found at least 16 violations in total.
This fine is the largest ever imposed by Georgia’s ethics commission, according to its executive director. It marks the end of a long dispute between the commission and the nonprofit.
After the 2018 race, they also failed to report significant donations and spending related to a failed transit referendum in Gwinnett County.
Abrams, who lost to Governor Brian Kemp by a narrow margin, has been a prominent figure in progressive politics. She’s hinted at possibly running again in 2026.
Interestingly, Sen. Raphael Warnock was involved with the New Georgia Project during the violations but stated he wasn’t part of compliance decisions.
Before this, another group supporting Abrams was fined for similar issues. Despite setbacks, Abrams remains a key player in Georgia politics.
