Blue Donors Outspent Red Ones by $34M in 2014 Declared Money

The disclosed big money donated to politicians and political causes in 2014 went to Democratic and liberal causes more than conservatives ones, by $174 million to $140 million, Politico reported.

An analysis of the 100 leading contributors of reported money shows that liberal billionaires have not been hesitant to write big checks. At the same time, Republicans come in stronger in undisclosed money, reportedly outspending liberals $127 million to $33 million.

For instance, while David Koch and Charles Koch ranked 10 and 29, respectively, on the disclosed list, the two men reportedly spent $290 million in "mostly secret money," according to Politico.

Of the top 100 disclosed donors, 52 are Democratic-leaning and led by hedge fund billionaire Tom Steyer, who put out $74 million.

The analysis is based on filings with the Federal Election Commission and Internal Revenue Service, and was carried out by the nonpartisan Center for Responsive Politics, according to Politico.

Many of the mega-donors are trying to steer the political system rather than merely aiding existing parties or groups. Five out of the 10 leading contributors placed their money into entities of their own creation. Steyer, for example, gave 90 percent of his money to his own global-warming PAC.

Some sprinkled money on both parties.

Former New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg gave money to moderate Democratic and Republican candidates. He spent his political money mostly on issues such as fighting obesity, limiting access to weapons, and pushing to legalize same-sex marriage.

Sean Parker, a Napster co-founder, also gave to both parties. Paul Singer, a hedge fund billionaire, funded efforts to encourage Republican support for gay rights, Politico reported.

The top 20 of the 100 leading donors of disclosed money are:

Tom Steyer & Kat Taylor ($74,300,000); Michael Bloomberg ($27,700,000); Miriam & Sheldon Adelson ($13,200,000); Paul Singer ($12,600,000); Fred Eychaner ($9,700,000); Diana & Bob Mercer ($8,400,000); Marilyn & Jim Simons ($8,300,000); Marlene & Joe Ricketts ($6,800,000); Dick Uihlein ($6,700,000); Julia & David Koch ($6,200,000); Anne & Ken Griffin ($5,400,000); Jerry Perenchio ($4,500,000); Ronnie Cameron ($4,200,000); Bob Perry ($4,100,000); Bob McNair ($3,900,000); George Soros ($3,800,000); Linda & Vince McMahon ($3,700,000); Amy Goldman ($3,500,000); Chellie Pingree & Donald Sussman ($3,400,000); and Beth & Seth Klarman ($3,300,000).

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