Democrat-Backed Patriots Run Project Manipulates Elections by Supporting Fringe Trump Candidates in Swing States

A secretive group linked to Democrats is recruiting pro-Trump candidates in key swing districts, potentially manipulating election outcomes.

At a Glance

The Patriots Run Project is recruiting pro-Trump independent candidates in swing districts
The group has ties to Democratic consulting firms and operates secretively
Candidates were recruited in Iowa, Nebraska, Montana, Virginia, and Minnesota
The effort aims to split the Republican vote in competitive races
Legal experts warn of potential ethical and legal violations

Covert Operation Targets Swing States

A shadowy organization called the Patriots Run Project has been exposed for its efforts to manipulate election outcomes in key swing states. The group, which has ties to Democratic operatives, is actively recruiting pro-Trump candidates to run as independents in crucial congressional races. This strategy appears designed to split the conservative vote and potentially tip the balance in favor of Democratic candidates.

The Patriots Run Project has targeted swing districts in Iowa, Nebraska, Montana, Virginia, and Minnesota. One notable case involved Joe Wiederien, a Trump supporter with a felony conviction, who was recruited to run against Republican Rep. Zach Nunn in Iowa. Wiederien later withdrew his candidacy after realizing he had been manipulated.

Several little-known pro-Trump candidates are running for Congress in key races as independents, and an Associated Press review finds they were recruited and backed by the same shadowy group. https://t.co/7TZgvJT6zs

— The Press Democrat (@NorthBayNews) September 16, 2024

Deceptive Recruitment Tactics

The group’s recruitment methods involve using Facebook ads with apocalyptic rhetoric to appeal to conservative voters. These ads urge patriots to “stand for freedom with President Trump and take back control from the globalist elites by running for office.” The Patriots Run Project then provides logistical support, including gathering petition signatures and advising on paperwork.

“At that time I was thinking, well, it would be nice to be in Congress and get to work with President Trump. It looks like it’s a dirty trick now.” Wiederien said.

This quote from a recruited candidate illustrates the deceptive nature of the operation. Many candidates, including disabled and retired individuals, were contacted through Facebook or online surveys, unaware of the true motives behind the recruitment efforts.

Democratic Ties and Legal Concerns

While Democratic organizations deny direct involvement, investigations have revealed links between the Patriots Run Project and Democratic consulting firms and donors. The group operates from a P.O. Box in Washington, D.C., and is not registered as a business, nonprofit, or political committee, raising questions about its legitimacy and funding sources.

“I am outraged to see anyone prey on hardworking Iowans or deceive voters.”Wiederien said.

Legal experts have suggested that these activities may cross ethical boundaries and potentially violate election laws. However, the secretive nature of the operation makes it challenging to determine if any specific laws have been broken. Facebook has removed the group’s pages for violating policies on coordinated inauthentic behavior, further highlighting concerns about the project’s tactics.

Implications for Election Integrity

The revelation of the Patriots Run Project’s activities comes at a time of heightened concern over election integrity. In a separate but related development, nearly 70 pro-Trump election officials in key battleground states have been identified as potential disruptors of the election certification process. This combination of factors raises serious questions about the fairness and transparency of upcoming elections.

“I think we are going to see mass refusals to certify the election” – Marc Elias, Democratic election lawyer

As defenders of free and fair elections, it is crucial to remain vigilant against any attempts to manipulate the electoral process, regardless of the source. The Patriots Run Project’s activities serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges to maintaining the integrity of our democratic institutions.