David Hogg’s brief tenure as vice chair of the Democratic National Committee is already making waves—and not in the way his party might have hoped.
Barely two weeks into his new role, Hogg has managed to stir up controversy by using DNC resources to solicit donations for his own political action committee, Leaders We Deserve, a PAC that not only funds his activism but also pays him a generous salary.
According to Federal Election Commission records, Hogg has received more than $175,000 from the PAC since its inception, including over $20,000 in salary payments in December alone. The issue isn’t that this is outright illegal—it’s not. But it’s certainly an ethical gray area, especially for someone in a leadership position within the national party.
Newly elected DNC Vice Chair David Hogg is using party resources to solicit donations to a PAC he controls and uses to pay himself — NYP
— NewsWire (@NewsWire_US) February 15, 2025
DNC insiders are already voicing their concerns, pointing out that instead of raising funds for the party, Hogg is directing potential donors toward his own organization. The solicitation messages, sent out en masse to the DNC’s contact lists, frame his PAC as part of a broader movement to reshape the party into one that is “youthful, energetic, and ready to win.” However, critics within the DNC aren’t convinced this is a noble cause—they see it as self-serving.
When The New York Post reached out for comment, Hogg’s response was brief and telling. He simply stated that he was “not doing any interviews” before hanging up the phone.
For someone who built a reputation on vocal activism and media engagement, his sudden reluctance to address this controversy is noteworthy.
The move has left some Democratic officials frustrated, as personal PAC fundraising at the expense of the DNC is frowned upon—even if it’s technically allowed. While it remains to be seen whether there will be any formal consequences, this early misstep raises questions about Hogg’s leadership and priorities. Instead of uniting the party and bolstering its resources, he appears to be using his newfound influence for personal financial gain.