Under the Public and Political Behavior category, the Brennan Center for Justice demonstrates a strong commitment to democratic accountability and transparency by exposing the self-dealing practices within the executive branch. This work is a positive force against the rising trends of authoritarianism, countering the misuse of political power that can facilitate fascism by empowering donors and allies through lucrative government mechanisms.

Uncovering Conflicts of Interest and Self-Dealing in the Executive Branch

This event demonstrates strong public and political behavior by advocating for reforms that protect democratic values and oppose authoritarian policies. The Brennan Center for Justice's agenda promotes transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system, engaging in practices that contribute positively to societal oversight and fair governance.

A Federal Agenda to Promote Safety and Justice

As a non‐partisan and research‐driven institute, the Brennan Center for Justice demonstrates ethical responsibility and transparency in its operations. The analysis reflects their rigorous standards in examining and publicizing threats to democratic institutions, thereby reinforcing ethical political practices.

Project 2025’s Plan for Criminal Justice Under Trump

The Brennan Center for Justice, through its detailed research report, is actively promoting democratic accountability by exposing the detrimental impact of unchecked corporate and billionaire influence in electoral processes. By critically examining the consequences of the Citizens United decision, the organization underscores the importance of transparency in political contributions and lobbying efforts, serving as a counterforce to authoritarian influences.

Fifteen Years Later, Citizens United Defined the 2024 Election

The report shines a light on political contributions and lobbying efforts by detailing the surge in dark money and undisclosed campaign donations. This transparency helps to hold political actors accountable and mitigates the risk of excessive financial influence undermining democratic processes—a crucial stand against authoritarian encroachments.

Money in the 2024 Election

The Brennan Center for Justice demonstrates a strong commitment to democratic integrity by advocating for reforms that limit the influence of big money in politics. Their push for tighter contribution limits and enhanced transparency is a proactive measure against the corrupting influence of unchecked political spending, which contributes positively to public and political behavior and counters authoritarian trends.

Influence of Big Money

The guide underscores the importance of public financing in countering the influence of wealthy donors on elections, supporting transparent and democratic political processes. By providing clear information on state-level financing programs, the Brennan Center exemplifies strong public and political behavior that diminishes the potential for authoritarian influence in political campaigns.

Guide to Public Financing Programs Nationwide

The Brennan Center for Justice is actively challenging the corrosive effects of big money on democracy by highlighting how unlimited donations from a few wealthy individuals undermine policy-making and contribute to authoritarian influences. Their advocacy for public financing reforms and transparency in political contributions demonstrates a strong commitment to countering these undemocratic practices.

How to Counter Big Money in Politics

The Brennan Center for Justice leverages its research to expose how federal agencies utilize social media for surveillance, a practice that can undermine civil liberties. By shining a light on these practices, the Center plays a crucial role in supporting democratic accountability and resisting authoritarian overreach. This proactive stance and commitment to transparency earns a positive score in Public and Political Behavior.

Social Media Surveillance by the U.S. Government

By releasing this comprehensive report on the use of connected surveillance devices by law enforcement, the Brennan Center for Justice demonstrates strong public and political engagement. Their work challenges authoritarian practices and advocates for enhanced privacy and civil liberties protections, reinforcing democratic norms and opposing the expansion of state surveillance, which are crucial in resisting fascist and authoritarian trends.

When Police Surveillance Meets the ‘Internet of Things’

The Brennan Center's work in analyzing and advocating reform of emergency powers is a strong positive contribution to democratic accountability. By exposing the authoritarian risks inherent in unchecked executive orders and seeking legislative reforms, the center actively counters the rise of executive overreach and reinforces checks and balances.

Emergency Powers - Brennan Center for Justice

The Brennan Center for Justice has been at the forefront of critiquing and exposing the misuse of repressive surveillance technologies by police. Their efforts emphasize the importance of civil liberties and democratic oversight, countering authoritarian practices. This proactive advocacy in public and political behavior demonstrates a strong commitment to protecting democratic institutions and human rights.

Policing & Technology - Brennan Center for Justice