How to read a connection on Dark Money Map

1. Start with direction.

An arrow points from the disclosed source of a relationship to its target. A donor can point to a committee; an organization can point to a lobbying firm through a reported payment; an organization can point to a bill through a disclosed position. Reversing the arrow changes the statement.

2. Name the record type.

The relationship type identifies what was reported. A contribution records incoming campaign money; an independent expenditure records spending for or against a candidate or measure; a lobbying payment records a payment for services. A legislative position records support or opposition to a bill. The same two organizations can have more than one type of relationship.

3. Check amount and time.

Amounts must be read with their reporting periods. A committee’s receipts through June and a later individual contribution may cover different dates. An itemized donor amount may already be included in the committee’s receipts. Review the filing date, statement period and relationship details before adding or comparing amounts.

4. Understand the limits

A contribution does not by itself establish control. A lobbying payment does not establish a particular bill assignment. A disclosed position does not prove that the organization caused a vote or outcome. Claims about influence or political outcomes require evidence beyond these disclosures.

5. Finish at the source.

Select a record to open its details, then use the Connections and Sources tabs to examine the underlying observations. Source entries include public identifiers or original links where available. Check the original record for amendments and read the methodology for coverage limits.