Democratic Officials Question David Hogg’s Fundraising Tactics As DNC Vice Chair

David Hogg, a newly appointed vice chairman of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), is facing criticism for using party contact lists to direct donations toward his own political action committee (PAC) instead of the DNC. Though not against party rules, some Democrats argue it reflects poor judgment.

Hogg has reportedly sent multiple messages to DNC contacts asking for contributions to Leaders We Deserve, the PAC he co-founded in 2023. The organization is designed to support young progressive candidates, but records show Hogg himself has received over $175,000 in payments from the PAC, including more than $20,000 in December.

One of his messages to DNC contacts read, “David Hogg here: I was just elected DNC Vice Chair! This is a huge win for our movement to make the Democratic Party more reflective of our base: youthful, energetic, and ready to win.” A link in the message directed supporters to his PAC’s donation page.

Some in the party are frustrated with the approach. A high-ranking Democrat said, “David Hogg — talk about living up to your name. A trough of DNC dollars all for him and he doesn’t seem to give an oink.” Another official criticized the decision, saying, “It’s a stunning lack of judgment that is concerning to many people.”

At just 24 years old, Hogg’s role as a DNC vice chair has already drawn controversy. He first gained national recognition as a survivor of the 2018 Parkland, Florida school shooting and later became an activist promoting left-wing causes such as defunding police departments and abolishing ICE. His leadership position has raised concerns among some Democrats, and his fundraising tactics have only deepened those doubts.

Cameron Kasky, another Parkland survivor, expressed disappointment over Hogg’s rise to leadership. “I mean it’s just very frustrating to be in a party in desperate need of increased accountability for our struggling leadership, and watch someone who is never held accountable ascend to leadership,” he said.

Hogg declined to comment on the issue when reached by phone. However, a spokesperson later defended him, stating that he has also raised funds for the DNC.

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