The data reported by OpenSecrets indicates that 3M Co has engaged in substantial lobbying efforts, spending $1,720,000 in 2024. Coupled with notable campaign contributions and evidence of revolving door practices, these activities raise concerns about the company’s role in influencing public policy in ways that may favor authoritarian interests. This negative rating reflects the anti-fascist perspective that such corporate political influence undermines democratic accountability.

3M Co Profile: Summary • OpenSecrets

The settlement highlights significant ethical lapses in 3M's management of hazardous chemicals. The extensive use of PFAS, known for its persistence in the environment and serious health impacts, led to widespread contamination of public drinking water. This event underscores a corporate prioritization of profit and cost-saving over public health and environmental safety, reflecting a broader neglect of ethical responsibility that can indirectly empower authoritarian practices through erosion of public trust and regulatory oversight.

Court approves 3M settlement over ‘forever chemicals’ in public drinking water systems

The OSHA investigation revealed that 3M violated federal hazardous energy setup regulations and allowed its workforce to circumvent essential machine guarding safeguards, directly contributing to a fatal incident. This reflects a significant disregard for worker safety and labor rights, a core aspect of Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility, particularly under the Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices category.

3M on the hook for more than $300K in penalties after employee’s death

The OSHA citation underscores significant neglect in upholding worker safety standards—a core component of labor relations and human rights practices. Fatalities resulting from inadequate machine safeguards not only reflect poor internal oversight but also contribute to broader systemic disregard for employee well-being, an important factor when evaluating corporate complicity in enabling environments that devalue human rights.

OSHA proposes 3M pay $312K for Wisconsin plant's safety violations

3M's Chinese subsidiary exploited tourism as a pretext for bribing government officials, violating critical provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act. Such unethical behavior undermines corporate responsibility and reflects a disregard for ethical business practices. This not only has legal ramifications but also contributes to an environment where corporate corruption can indirectly bolster authoritarian influences.

3M to pay more than $6.5M for violating certain provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act

The involvement of top executives in the administration and oversight of 3M’s political activity, as evidenced by the PAC Board composition and executive reviews, suggests a high level of corporate immersion in political affairs. This executive engagement reinforces the alignment of corporate strategy with political outcomes, raising concerns about the potential for undermining democratic processes in favor of corporate interests.

3M : Political Activities and Issue Advocacy - MarketScreener.com

3M, as a government contractor, is alleged to have donated illegally, bypassing regulations intended to curb undue corporate influence in political campaigns. This behavior undermines democratic processes by favoring private interests over public accountability, aligning with authoritarian practices by potentially bolstering regimes that ignore campaign finance laws.

Campaign spending watchdog says 3M donated illegally