The large sums allocated to political contributions and lobbying activities raise concerns about corporate influence over the political process. Such extensive spending can be seen as increasing the risk of corporate capture and potentially facilitating policies that tilt toward authoritarian interests, which is harmful from an anti-fascist perspective.

Wells Fargo Profile: Summary • OpenSecrets

The reported $4.31 million spent on lobbying in 2023 by Wells Fargo Securities is indicative of aggressive efforts to shape political outcomes in favor of corporate interests. In the context of democratic accountability and worker rights, such extensive lobbying is viewed critically as it may undermine equitable policy-making and contribute to authoritarian influences.

Wells Fargo Lobbying Profile • OpenSecrets

The lawsuit alleges that the company did not reimburse remote employees for work expenses, which undermines labor rights and fair practices. This is seen as a serious breach in the employer’s obligation to protect its workers, reflecting negatively on its business practices and ethical responsibility.

Class Action Alleges Wells Fargo Violated Labor Law by Failing to Reimburse Remote Employees

The tripling of political donations to state-focused 527 groups by Wells Fargo indicates a deliberate effort to influence state-level political processes. Despite assertions that the contributions are for administrative purposes, the marked increase in corporate political spending raises concerns about undue corporate influence on local policymaking and potential reinforcement of authoritarian practices.

Wells Fargo has tripled political spending with state groups over past decade

The article documents multiple incidents where Wells Fargo has been accused of retaliating against employees and suppressing union activities, including unfair labor practice charges and settlements with the NLRB. Such actions indicate a disregard for worker rights and corporate accountability, aligning with patterns of behavior that undermine labor relations and human rights.

Brown Raises Concerns About Wells Fargo's Unfair Labor Practices

The labor board's findings that Wells Fargo violated federal labor law by restricting pro-union activities and removing union literature indicates a significant breach in worker rights. This action undermines labor organizing efforts and is a clear example of poor labor relations and human rights practices.

Wells Fargo Violated Worker Rights, US Labor Board Officials Say

The board of Wells Fargo demonstrated executive political engagement by hiring a dedicated team of lobbyists to counter congressional investigations. This move suggests a deliberate effort to influence political outcomes in favor of the company, further eroding transparency and accountability.

How Wells Fargo spent millions on lobbying the feds