Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-IA) has initiated an investigation into the Gates Foundation, Rockefeller Brothers Fund, and Ford Foundation, focusing on their compliance with tax regulations amid allegations they funded entities linked to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP). Grassley’s inquiry follows reports that the Gates Foundation allegedly provided $23 million, the Rockefeller Brothers Fund $7.4 million, and the Ford Foundation $10 million to CCP-affiliated organizations in recent years.
The senator cited a Washington Examiner report detailing how these nonprofits allegedly supported Chinese government agencies, state-run universities, and initiatives tied to the Belt and Road strategy—a global infrastructure program critics argue strengthens China’s geopolitical influence. Grassley emphasized that tax-exempt organizations must prioritize charitable activities under Internal Revenue Code 501(c)(3) and cannot directly fund foreign governments.
In letters sent to the foundations, Grassley questioned whether their donations aligned with legal requirements. For instance, the Gates Foundation reportedly funneled $11.7 million into Chinese government agencies in 2023, including $2 million to a corporation linked to the Chinese military and $6.7 million to state-run universities aiding CCP leadership. Tax filings also revealed the Gates Foundation allocated $23 million to over 20 Chinese entities, some designated as “foreign governments.”
The Ford Foundation defended its actions, stating its grants in China aimed to reduce poverty and promote democratic values, while the Rockefeller Brothers Fund disclosed $7.4 million in donations to CCP-connected groups between 2020 and 2024. Grassley has given the organizations until November 10th to respond to his inquiries.