The Conservative Partnership Institute, a nonprofit organization that saw a surge in funding after becoming a hub for President Donald J. Trump’s allies in Washington, is under scrutiny for paying at least $3.2 million to corporations led by its own leaders or their relatives since the beginning of 2021.
According to records, the nonprofit’s three highest-paid contractors were all connected to insiders within the organization. This includes contractors led by the institute’s president, Edward Corrigan, and its chief operating officer, as well as a contractor with board members that included a senior legal fellow who supported Mr. Trump’s election efforts.
The institute’s hiring of companies connected to insiders raised concerns about self-dealing and potential overpayment. Legal experts highlighted the lack of checks and balances in these transactions, as the insider-led companies had control over the funds flowing out of the nonprofit.
Despite questions about the transparency and fairness of these transactions, the institute’s leaders did not provide clear answers about the steps taken to ensure proper payment to the insider-connected companies.
As the investigation continues, the institute’s donors, including Republican political campaigns and conservative businesspeople, expressed surprise at the use of vendors with insider connections. The nonprofit’s leaders have emphasized their commitment to providing high-quality services, but the lack of transparency in these transactions has raised red flags among experts in nonprofit law.
The Conservative Partnership Institute’s rapid growth and expansion in recent years have brought its financial practices under scrutiny, highlighting the importance of accountability and transparency in nonprofit organizations.