Bob Cushman’s investigative exploration seeks to unravel what he suggests may be one of the largest money laundering schemes in U.S. political history. He begins his narrative by recalling his initial discoveries back in 2019 when he noticed a striking pattern of campaign funding among Michigan Congresswomen. Around 75% of their campaign contributions came from outside Michigan, raising his suspicions about the legitimacy of these donations. Cushman’s efforts to engage high-profile officials, including Attorney General William Barr and FBI Director Christopher Wray, went unanswered, compelling him to delve deeper into the mechanics of these transactions.
The investigation takes a pivotal turn in November 2023, when Cushman shifts focus to Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer. By employing strategic consultants, he notes that Whitmer’s campaign contributions surged dramatically, increasing by 100 times, while the number of donations skyrocketed by 265 times. Such growth raises questions about the flow of money through what he terms “smurfs,” or straw donors—individuals who unknowingly contribute funds accumulated illegally. The evidence suggests that these donations may be linked to deceptive practices, clouding the integrity of the campaigns involved.
Further complicating the narrative, Cushman cites a report from Election Watch indicating a large-scale laundering operation potentially involving over $200 million in illicit campaign contributions. He believes that many individuals classified as “smurfs” belong to economically vulnerable groups, predominantly older, retired white individuals who may have had their identities exploited for political donations without their knowledge.
The author chronicles his correspondence with James Comer, Chair of the Congressional Oversight Committee, regarding the ongoing investigation into campaign finance irregularities. In his letter, Cushman emphasizes that the influx of laundered money has often compromised the principle of representation and may have skewed election outcomes. He goes as far as to claim that billions may have been laundered through platforms like ActBlue, which he believes could be implicated in these activities, alongside the Federal Election Commission (FEC).
Cushman’s analysis includes detailed insight into the profiles of 20 “Corey Booker Smurfs”—seniors alleged to have made over 187,000 donations totaling around $2.6 million. He challenges conventional explanations, asserting that these donations likely derive from identity theft rather than individual intent. As the narrative progresses to April 2025, Cushman reports that President Trump has called for a Justice Department investigation targeting foreign money linked to ActBlue, further validating his concerns regarding foreign influence in local democratic processes.
By December 2025, Cushman produces a report indicating that six specific lawmakers may be tainted by the fallout of these money laundering schemes. His research highlights a community of 42 seniors implicated in transferring over $7.4 million through numerous suspect donations across multiple candidates. His doubts regarding the legitimacy of these contributions prompt a broader concern about accountability within the FEC—an agency he believes has fallen short of upholding election integrity.
The analysis becomes even more alarming when Cushman recounts a revelation shared during a conversation with campaign strategist Jason Roe. Their discussion unveils the staggering sums that have passed through ActBlue, asserting that this entity may have knowingly facilitated illegal financial activities over the years, questioning the integrity of past elections.
Finally, Cushman encapsulates his findings in a manner intended to resonate with an audience invested in transparency and accountability. He warns of potential criminal behavior among well-known political figures, urging readers to pay attention to the labyrinth of contributions that may have undermined democratic principles. As his investigation unfolds, Cushman leaves the reader with a sense of urgency, reminding them that the issues at stake are far-reaching and not easily dismissed.
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