Gun control remains a divisive issue in American politics, with both supporters and opponents actively engaging in advocacy. A significant part of the gun control movement is represented by five major nonprofit organizations: Everytown for Gun Safety, Giffords, Brady, March for Our Lives, and Sandy Hook Promise. These groups are characterized by their dual structure of 501(c)(3) charitable and 501(c)(4) political arms, with some also operating political action committees (PACs).
Among these organizations, Everytown for Gun Safety stands out as the largest and most influential. Between 2022 and 2023, its 501(c)(4) revenues were more than double those of the other four groups combined. Its 501(c)(3) revenues accounted for over 85% of the combined total of these groups.
Everytown was established in 2013 through a merger between Moms Demand Action for Gun Sense in America and Mayors Against Illegal Guns. Michael Bloomberg played a pivotal role in its formation by committing $50 million at its launch in 2014. Bloomberg has been a significant contributor to gun control efforts in the United States, reportedly donating up to $270 million since 2007. Media reports suggest that Bloomberg’s contributions make up between one-quarter to one-third of Everytown’s funding.
Everytown advocates for various gun control measures such as banning high-capacity magazines and assault weapons, implementing mandatory waiting periods for firearm purchases, and repealing stand-your-ground laws. The group also calls for strict requirements on concealed carry permits and opposes open carry due to concerns about exploitation by white supremacists. Additionally, Everytown seeks to repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
Apart from Bloomberg’s support, Everytown receives funding from other sources like donor-advised funds and private foundations. Notable contributors include Fidelity Investments Charitable Gift Fund, Vanguard Charitable Endowment Program, American Online Giving Foundation, Donald A. Pels Charitable Trust, Fidelity Foundation, and Crankstart Foundation.
In recent years, financial transactions within Everytown have shown substantial internal transfers aimed at supporting political activities. From 2022 to 2023, the Everytown for Gun Safety Support Fund transferred nearly $2 million to its Action Fund arm which then contributed significantly to the Victory Fund PAC.
According to OpenSecrets data from the 2022 and 2024 election cycles, all outside spending by the Victory Fund was directed either towards Democrats or against Republicans. In April 2025, it announced plans to invest $10 million in electing Democratic state attorneys general during upcoming elections.
The next article will focus on Giffords’ involvement in advocating for various gun control laws.
