Dark Money Primer:The website OpenSecrets.org provides a primer on dark money, including the basic terms and processes through which dark money is funneled, and research tools to discover funding to candidates running for federal offices throughout the United States. Students can use the tools available at this website to explore the individuals, corporations and political action committees (PACs) giving to major campaigns in their states.

Explore Montana’s History of Corporate Corruption:Using this June 3, 2012 New York Timeseditorial by then-Montana Governor Brian Schweitzer on Montana’s history of corporate corruption, learn why the state passed the Corrupt Practices Act of 1912. Students can research “copper king” William A. Clark and how his actions inspired the need for the Act and connect that history to Montana’s current leadership in fighting corporate contributions to campaigns. See Tester’s co-sponsorship of the Federal DISCLOSE Act, Bullock’s suing of the IRS over Mnuchin’s recent IRS rule change removing donor disclosure and Tester’s sponsorship of Federal legislation regarding that rule change.

Understanding Campaign Finance:Use the PBS NewsHour Understanding Campaign Finance Lawlesson plan to explore campaign finance and how it was influenced by the Supreme Court’s Citizens United decision.