The data from OpenSecrets shows that Cargill Inc PAC received numerous large contributions, indicating an active engagement in political financing. Such contributions can be leveraged to shape policies in ways that may support authoritarian or corporatist agendas, undermining democratic accountability. This political influence reflects negatively on the company's commitment to democratic values.

Cargill Inc PAC Donors • OpenSecrets

The court ruling against Cargill for utilizing child and forced labour in its cocoa supply chain represents a significant violation of supply chain ethics. This breach not only undermines human rights but also suggests a broader disregard for ethical labor practices and due diligence, aligning with practices that enable oppressive systems. Such violations are critical within the Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility category and justify a highly negative score.

Cargill liable for child and forced labour in cocoa supply chain

The report also highlights economic practices that facilitate land grabbing and aggressive expansion into indigenous territories. This economic collaboration not only supports unsustainable agribusiness but also undermines the rights and livelihoods of traditional communities.

Cargill: Violating Indigenous Peoples’ and traditional communities’ rights in Brazil

Cargill’s business model in Bolivia is bolstered by extensive financial backing from major global banks, which continue to support its operations despite ongoing evidence of deforestation. This economic collaboration with financial institutions points to a troubling structural influence that enables and perpetuates unsustainable agribusiness practices.

Cargill, soy, banks and destruction of Bolivia's forest

The political contribution of $205,500 by Cargill Inc illustrates a direct involvement in influencing political campaigns. Through its PAC, the company channels funds that may contribute to shaping legislation and policy in favor of corporate interests, potentially at the expense of democratic accountability. This is concerning from an anti-fascist perspective as such contributions can reinforce systems that enable authoritarian influence.

Cargill Inc PAC Contributions to Federal Candidates • OpenSecrets

Cargill AgHorizons, as part of the larger Cargill organization, significantly increased its lobbying expenditures in 2019, spending $1.4M to influence policy on trade, tax reform, and other key issues. This aggressive lobbying strategy appears designed to secure favorable outcomes for corporate interests, potentially undermining public welfare and democratic accountability. From an anti-fascist perspective, such corporate behavior contributes to the erosion of democratic norms and increases the risk of aligning with authoritarian policies.

Cargill spent $1.4M last year on lobbying in DC. Here's where the money is going.

Cargill AgHorizons, as part of its parent company's operations, directed about 60% of its PAC contributions during the 2016 election cycle to candidates known for climate change denial. This undermines its public commitment to addressing climate change and aligns it with political actors whose denial of scientific evidence could have broader authoritarian and anti-democratic implications. Such political contributions are indicative of a willingness to engage in practices that may support harmful policy outcomes.

Report: Cargill backs climate change deniers despite pledge