Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Chuck Grassley is investigating several major charitable foundations, namely the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and the Ford Foundation. This inquiry focuses on whether these organizations have violated tax laws by funding the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and related entities.
1. Background of Investigation:
• On October 28, 2025, Grassley released a statement expressing concern about the alleged financial support these foundations have provided to the CCP and similar organizations.
• He inquired about the truth of these reports and how their funding aligns with the requirements for maintaining federal tax-exempt status under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.
2. Funding Allegations:
• Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation:
• In 2023, the foundation reportedly directed approximately $11.7 million to CCP entities.
• Additionally, it allegedly funded a corporation collaborating with the Chinese military and made contributions to state-run Chinese universities totaling around $6.7 million.
• In fiscal year 2022, it provided about $23 million to more than 20 Chinese organizations classified as “foreign governments. ”
• Rockefeller Brothers Fund:
• From April 2020 to August 2024, it reportedly donated approximately $7.4 million to organizations linked to the CCP or led by CCP members.
• One significant partnership was with the “Society of Entrepreneurs of Ecology Foundation,” which collaborates with the CCP on projects like the Belt and Road Initiative.
• Ford Foundation:
• Between January 2020 and December 2024, it allegedly granted nearly $10 million to advance the Belt and Road Initiative, with a majority of these funds going to universities associated with the CCP and the People's Liberation Army.
3. Political Backing for the Investigation:
• Grassley’s investigation is positioned to be stronger due to support from the current administration. On September 25, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a memorandum aimed at investigating and halting funding that could support political violence or terrorism, including by tax-exempt organizations.
• This effort reflects a shift from previous investigations that faced political and media obstacles.
Senator Grassley's investigation into major foundations raises significant questions about their financial practices and compliance with U. S. tax laws. It highlights concerns regarding the influence of these foundations on foreign governments, particularly the Chinese Communist Party. Grassley seeks transparency from these organizations regarding their funding activities and adherence to charity guidelines, emphasizing the scrutiny of tax-exempt entities during his inquiry.
For further details, Grassley’s letters to the foundations can be accessed as part of the public records associated with this investigation.
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