High-Profile Democrats Caught in a Wave of Fraud and Corruption Allegations
A fresh wave of fraud and corruption investigations has cast a dark cloud over several influential Democratic figures. Both federal and local probes are exposing alleged multi-million dollar schemes involving embezzlement, wire fraud, and conflicts of interest.
One recent development: The U.S. Department of Justice disclosed that Joseph Sanberg—a major Democratic donor and progressive activist—has agreed to plead guilty to two counts of wire fraud. Sanberg, well known for co-founding the fintech firm Aspiration Partners, admitted to exploiting his role to mislead investors and lenders, causing over $248 million in financial losses.
“Joseph Sanberg abused his authority and used lies to enrich himself at the expense of others,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti. “His actions caused massive financial harm and eroded trust in our financial institutions. We will continue holding fraudsters accountable—regardless of their political status or affiliations.”
Court filings allege Sanberg falsified the financial standing of Aspiration to attract funding, concealed debts, and inflated the company’s value. In contrast to its public image as a socially responsible firm, these actions reportedly subverted its stated purpose.
Election records show Sanberg has made substantial donations to progressive causes and Democratic candidates, including California Governor Gavin Newsom.
But he’s not the only figure facing serious legal consequences.
In Los Angeles: Councilmember Curren Price now faces additional charges in a growing public corruption investigation. The Los Angeles District Attorney recently filed two more felony charges, adding to the ten charges he already faces—embezzlement, perjury, and conflict of interest.
Price, who has represented the Ninth District since 2013, allegedly voted on multimillion-dollar contracts from agencies that were paying his wife’s consulting firm more than $800,000. These new charges detail payments from LA Metro and the Housing Authority to Del Richardson & Associates, a business owned by Price’s wife, Delbra Pettice Richardson, between 2019 and 2021.
“This is not how public service is supposed to work,” stated Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan Hochman. “Using your position to benefit yourself and your family financially while betraying public trust is completely unacceptable. We will not tolerate pay‑to‑play politics in this city.”
Previously, Price pleaded not guilty to five counts of embezzlement, three counts of perjury, and two counts of conflict of interest. The new charges only complicate his legal and political standing.
Meanwhile, broader investigations into other high-profile Democrats continue to gain momentum. Reports from Virginia and Maryland indicate grand juries are weighing possible indictments against New York Attorney General Letitia James and California Senator Adam Schiff. They face allegations of fabricating property records to secure favorable mortgage and bank loan terms.
Former Acting U.S. Attorney Ed Martin—appointed by Florida Attorney General Pam Bondi to oversee the inquiry—emphasized the gravity of the situation:
“This is a deeply important mission. Attorney General Bondi and President Trump have entrusted me with pursuing the truth. We’re following the evidence without bias or political interference. DOJ and the FBI have already done the legwork—now it’s about bringing it to a conclusion.”
If convicted, both James and Schiff could face up to 30 years in prison per fraud count.
This surge of legal challenges comes at a critical time for the Democratic Party, as it seeks to rebuild trust ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. With several officials under scrutiny, party leaders are bracing for potential fallout.
Public cynicism toward elected officials has risen in recent years—regardless of party. These cases are only deepening concerns about transparency and ethical accountability.
Will these investigations end in convictions or resignations? That remains uncertain. But the message from law enforcement is unmistakable: no one is untouchable, and political power won’t shield those who break the law.
