Everything you need to know about the state of the FEC |
On May 1, the Federal Election Commission lost its ability to enforce and regulate federal campaign finance laws. The agency needs a minimum of four commissioners to execute its high-level responsibilities, but now, it only has three. This is a big deal for federal politics and elections — but not an unprecedented situation. FEC expert Dave Levinthal breaks down everything you should know about the commission's latest de facto shutdown. |
|
|
Which air carriers are positioned to benefit from increased deportations? |
By Indy Scholtens
As the Trump administration is ramping up detentions and deportations in an effort to reach its goal of removing 1 million immigrants by the end of this year, new air carriers have signed contracts with Immigration and Customs Enforcement to carry out deportation flights. The transportation of immigrants to ICE detention centers and countries that have agreed to accept immigrants is a billion-dollar business.
Deportation flights and the air carriers carrying out those flights have been around for decades. ICE’s current prime air charter contractor is CSI Aviation, which in turn subcontracts the flights to smaller carriers. It’s a lucrative business, according to industry executives: The combination of consistent work, with carriers guaranteed payment for a minimum level of monthly flying and penalties for canceled flights, is appealing to air carriers.
According to data from Witness at the Border, a migrant advocacy group, there have been more than 350 deportation flights since the start of 2025. Initially the Trump administration used military aircraft to carry out the flights, but after reporting showed the military flights were expensive and inefficient, they were stopped in early March.
The flights are departing from Mesa, Arizona; San Antonio, Texas; Alexandria, Louisiana; Harlingen, Texas; and Miami. Countries that have accepted migrants include Guatemala, Brazil, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Honduras, India, Mexico, Libya, Panama and Venezuela. Immigrants have also been sent to the Guantánamo Bay prison in Cuba and the Cecot mega-prison in El Salvador.
|
|
|
See our media citations from outlets around the nation this week: |
|
|
The OpenSecrets merch store is here! |
|
|
We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the OpenSecrets Merch Store! Now, you can support our mission while looking good doing it. Every purchase helps us provide comprehensive and reliable data, analysis and tools for policymakers, storytellers and citizens.
Our collection — initially featuring a hoodie, crewneck, t-shirt and hat — is designed to spread awareness and make a difference. Whether you're treating yourself or finding the perfect gift, every item you buy helps fuel our cause. And every item in our store was manufactured by a certified ethical and “sweat-free” company. Join us in wearing your support — transparency has never been more comfortable! |
|
|
OpenSecrets 1100 13th Street, NW Suite 800 Washington, DC xxxxxx United States |
|
|
If you believe you received this message in error or wish to no longer receive email from us, please unsubscribe. |
|
|
|