May 27, 2021 - Politics & Policy

Facebook resumes some political contributions

Shawna Chen

Photo of an iPhone with the Facebook suite of apps displayed on the screen — Photo: Christoph Dernbach/picture alliance via Getty Images

Facebook is resuming contributions through its political action committee, but not for any lawmakers who voted against certifying the 2020 U.S. election, according to an internal company letter obtained by Axios.

Why it matters: Facebook was one several major companies that froze political spending after the Jan. 6 Capitol insurrection.

Google was among the first businesses to pull donations to lawmakers who voted against certification.

What they're saying: "While a contribution to a candidate for office does not mean that we agree with every policy or position that candidate may espouse, we believe this decision is appropriate given the unprecedented events in January," Brian Rice, a public policy director at Facebook, said in a letter to employees.

Our thought bubble, via Axios' Ina Fried: The companies who plan to keep withholding donations may say so publicly. The key will be which companies quietly resume donations.

The big picture: Facebook's announcement means the company will not make political contributions to eight U.S. senators — including Ted Cruz and Josh Hawley — and 139 House members.

All are Republican.

Add Axios on Google

Facebook resumes some political contributions

What to read next