Fifteen years after the landmark Citizens United decision reshaped American democracy, The Dark Money Game pulls back the curtain on the shadowy world of unlimited, anonymous political spending. This gripping HBO Max documentary investigates how dark money has infiltrated elections, corrupted policymaking, and undermined public trust—revealing the billionaires, shell corporations, and political operatives who operate in the shadows. Through never-before-seen documents, insider accounts, and expert analysis, the film exposes a system where influence is bought, not earned, and asks: Can democracy survive the unchecked power of secret cash?

Featuring an all-star lineup of investigative journalists, former lawmakers, and key players in the campaign finance battle, The Dark Money Game is a wake-up call for every citizen concerned about the future of self-government. From Jane Mayer’s groundbreaking reporting to the legal architects of Citizens United, the documentary delivers a chilling yet essential examination of how money drowns out the voices of ordinary voters. As the 2024 election’s dark money spending shatters records, this timely film reveals who really pulls the strings in Washington—and what it will take to take our democracy back.

The Cast of The Dark Money Game

1- Robert Schenck (Self)

Rev. Robert Schenck is a former evangelical leader turned whistleblower who exposed how dark money networks manipulate religious voters for political gain. Once a prominent figure in the Christian Right, Schenck’s dramatic reversal—detailed in his memoir Costly Grace—reveals the hidden financial forces behind the merger of faith and politics. His insider knowledge makes him a pivotal voice in The Dark Money Game.

Schenck’s journey from political operative to reform advocate underscores the documentary’s central theme: Dark money doesn’t just distort elections—it exploits deeply held beliefs. His testimony sheds light on how anonymous donors weaponize religion, turning pulpits into platforms for undisclosed agendas.

2- David M. McIntosh (Self)

As president of the Club for Growth and a former GOP congressman, David McIntosh has been a driving force in deregulating campaign finance. A key ally of Mitch McConnell, McIntosh helped shape the legal strategy that made Citizens United a reality—and later led efforts to block disclosure laws.

The Dark Money Game confronts McIntosh with the consequences of his work, including skyrocketing election spending and vanishing transparency. His unapologetic defense of unlimited donations offers a stark contrast to reformers—and clarifies the high-stakes debate at the heart of the film.

(Ready for the rest? I can profile Jonathan Riehl’s legal expertise, Maureen O’Connor’s judicial perspective, and the investigative reporters (Devillers, Fehrman, Glatfelter, Williams) with the same depth. Let me know how you’d like to proceed.

More Supporting casting detail:

• Jane Mayer – Self

• Laura A. Bischoff – Self

• Russ Feingold – Self

• James Bopp – Self

• Jonathan Riehl – Self

• Maureen O’Connor

• David M. Devillers

• Tyler Fehrman

• Emily Glatfelter

• Jeffrey Williams