May a Section 501(c)(3) organization invite a candidate to speak at its events?
Depending upon the facts and circumstances of the event, a Section 501(c)(3) organization may invite a candidate to speak at an event without being considered to have participated or intervened in a political campaign. However, careful consultation with competent counsel is recommended prior to inviting candidates to speak at events. If a candidate is invited to speak at an event sponsored by a Section 501(c)(3) organization or to visit the facilities of the Section 501(c)(3) organization, the first inquiry is whether the candidate was invited to speak in the capacity of a candidate or as an individual. If the candidate is invited in an individual capacity, there is no requirement to provide equal access to other candidates. In such circumstance, however, the Section 501(c)(3) organization must take steps to make sure campaign activity does not occur during the visit. Finally, if the candidate is to receive an award or other public recognition, it should be made clear the award is for
Related Questions
- Can an organization invite a political candidate to speak at an organization event for reasons other than his or her candidacy for public office?
- Can an organization invite a political candidate to speak at its events without jeopardizing its tax-exempt status?
- Can a section 501(c)(3) organization conduct business activities with a candidate for public office?
