Protect Democracy

We are a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization founded in 2017 to prevent authoritarianism and strengthen U.S. democracy. We defend elections, uphold the rule of law, and safeguard fact-based political debate. Our work focuses on four main objectives: protecting free and fair elections, defending the rule of law, safeguarding the public square from disinformation, and shaping a more resilient democracy for future generations.

We use a multidisciplinary approach, including litigation, legislative advocacy, research, and technology. Our public-interest litigation team defends the rule of law, deters criminality, prevents abuses of power, counters disinformation, and protects vulnerable communities. This includes litigating against abuses by federal agencies (such as DHS tactics) and addressing the domestic use of military force to defend First Amendment rights. As a legislative advocacy and policy organization, we work to uphold and strengthen laws while advancing policies that balance institutional power. Our nonpartisan research and analysis center publishes insights on protecting current democratic structures and building future ones. We also serve as a strategic communications and coalition partner, designing campaigns to engage diverse audiences and mobilize alliances. Additionally, we function as a nonprofit technology startup, analyzing public data to enhance election transparency, security, and confidence, and providing support to election officials.

We operate in over 20 states and have more than 100 staff members. We operate through two sister organizations: Protect Democracy Project, a 501©(3) focused on public education, research, analysis, technology, and litigation for free and fair elections, the rule of law, and fact-based debate; and Protect Democracy United, a 501©(4) dedicated to advocacy efforts, lobbying, litigation, public communications, and organizing to confront threats to democracy.

Our mission is to prevent U.S. democracy from declining into a more authoritarian form of government. We are nonpartisan and cross-ideological, dedicated to defeating authoritarian threats, building resilient democratic institutions, and protecting freedom and liberal democracy. Our values include a commitment to integrity, diversity, and inclusion. We encourage staff from varied political perspectives and backgrounds to contribute to democratic norms.

Our team consists of over 100 individuals, including conservatives, moderates, and progressives. They bring diverse expertise as policy experts, lawyers, technologists, system builders, operations experts, legislative advocates, and media strategists. We operate with a remote-first work arrangement across the United States, which includes occasional travel and team retreats at least twice a year. Our work environment is fast-paced and collaborative, emphasizing a growth- and feedback-forward culture. We value diverse perspectives and offer opportunities for professional development, fostering a commitment to integrity, diversity, and inclusion within our teams.

We provide a comprehensive benefits package. This includes generous sick leave and a flexible vacation policy with 4-5 weeks off per year, along with 12 paid holidays. Employees receive 6 weeks of paid family medical leave and 18 weeks of paid parental leave. We offer a 401(k) plan with an employer match of up to 6% that vests immediately.

Medical premiums for employees are covered 100%, with up to 95% coverage for dependents depending on the plan. Dental and vision insurance premiums are covered 100% for both employees and dependents. Additional benefits include long-term disability and life insurance, fertility benefits, and a home office stipend. We also provide ample opportunities for personal and professional development. While bonuses are at the Executive Director’s discretion, we maintain a remote-first work arrangement with occasional travel (typically 1-2 times per month) and require attendance at least two team retreats annually.