IRS Investigates Political Allegations Against Planned Parenthood by Activist Group

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Planned Parenthood has never been free from political involvement. And now, notoriety is prompting IRS investigations. 40 Days for Life filed a complaint against Planned Parenthood, accusing it of political coordination. Will this investigation into their political activities have an impact on the organization’s future?

Allegations Against Planned Parenthood

40 Days for Life, a pro-life organization, has accused Planned Parenthood of illegal political coordination with the Harris-Walz presidential campaign. A pro-life organization, 40 Days for Life, has accused Planned Parenthood of illegally coordinating with the Harris-Walz presidential campaign.

The complaint focuses on specific events, such as campaign phone banking activities, that allegedly hosted the political campaign. Flyers advertised “Tim Walz Tuesdays,” implying an endorsement, which could violate their nonpartisan status. According to the complaint, the Sarasota facility served as the headquarters for such acts, which violated its tax-exempt status.

Political and Regulatory Reactions

The controversy surrounding Planned Parenthood’s actions has reached political leaders, potentially influencing future legislative actions. Speaker Mike Johnson and Vice President-elect JD Vance have both advocated for Planned Parenthood’s defunding, citing claims made by 40 Days for Life.

This ongoing discussion calls attention to the strict rules that govern 501(c)(3) organizations, stressing that such activities should remain separate from partisan politics. “And you just can’t do that as a 501c3. This is very, very basic. They were stupid to do it,” said Shawn Carney, CEO of 40 Days for Life.

Planned Parenthood’s political arm has openly praised politicians such as Walz and Harris for their positions on abortion rights. The calls for a review and possible defunding come against a backdrop of increased political scrutiny of nonprofit organizations’ roles in political advocacy.

Awaiting IRS and Planned Parenthood’s Response

While 40 Days for Life awaits a response from the IRS, Planned Parenthood has yet to issue statements clarifying or denying the allegations levelled against them. Press inquiries from outlets such as Fox News Digital have been unanswered.

“This is one of the many violations we have seen Planned Parenthood commit, because we are physically present at these abortion facilities, holding peaceful vigils and offering medical alternatives to abortion. And so, because we are out there in over 1700 locations, we see a lot of what Planned Parenthood does.” – Shawn Carney

The situation calls into question how nonprofit organizations must strictly adhere to rules prohibiting political engagement in order to maintain their nonprofit status. As the IRS review continues, the next few weeks may determine future actions and policy shifts regarding nonprofit participation in political activities.

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