Data from OpenSecrets indicates that PayPal, Inc. spent over $1.5 million on lobbying activities during the early part of 2025, highlighting the company’s engagement in influencing public policy. This effort to shape regulations in favor of corporate interests raises concerns about the potential undermining of democratic processes and progressive policy measures.

Campaign finance data for PayPal Inc, as reported by OpenSecrets, reveals a mix of political contributions for the current election cycle. Notably, the data lists a donation to Donald Trump of $7,386 alongside contributions to groups such as DNC Services Corp, Republican Party of San Mateo County, and the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee. The inclusion of a donation to Trump—a figure widely associated with far‑right, authoritarian politics—raises concerns about the company’s political influence in a polarized environment.

PayPal removed nearly all references to diversity, equity, and inclusion from its annual report to shareholders, signaling a rollback of its previously stated commitment to DEI in its human capital discussion.

PayPal terminated the account of Hong Kong's League of Social Democrats on September 19, 2022, citing 'excessive risks'. The decision, executed without prior warning, has hindered the group's fundraising efforts at a time when pro-democracy activism faces severe state pressure.

On May 23, 2022, PayPal banned two independent media organizations, Mint Press and Consortium, from its payments platform and froze their funds. This decision has been interpreted as an act of ideological censorship, with critics arguing that it limits dissenting voices and alternative journalism by targeting antiwar, left-leaning outlets.

PayPal has arbitrarily shut down the accounts of Consortium News, MintPress News, and other independent voices critical of the US/NATO narrative in Ukraine, with explanations citing 'inconsistent activity' under its User Agreement. This move is seen as part of a broader censorship campaign that undermines free speech and suppresses dissenting political views.

PayPal, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and allied civil rights organizations such as LULAC, launched an initiative on July 26, 2021 to disrupt extremist financial networks and protect marginalized communities. The collaboration involves sharing intelligence with the financial industry, policymakers, and law enforcement to combat hate and extremist financing.

PayPal, in partnership with the Anti-Defamation League, announced an initiative to research and block payments linked to hate groups and extremist activity. This move comes in response to studies indicating that extremist groups have been using PayPal’s platform for funding, and aims to share insights with law enforcement and policymakers.