Case fileTrustConservative networkHigh-profile
The Searle Freedom Trust
Appears in filings: 2020–2023
Total known giving to Capital Research Center
$325,000
“The trust gave more than $200 million to conservative causes before closing itself down in 2025.”
Why this donor matters
The Searle Freedom Trust, built from the G.D. Searle pharmaceutical fortune, gave more than $200 million to conservative causes before deliberately spending itself down and closing in 2025. It is named among Capital Research Center's foundation supporters, and its grantees spanned the conservative policy network.
Giving on record
| Year | Recipient | Source filing | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | Capital Research Center | IRS Form 990 (2023) ↗ | $75,000 |
| 2022 | Capital Research Center | IRS Form 990 (2022) ↗ | $75,000 |
| 2021 | Capital Research Center | IRS Form 990 (2021) ↗ | $75,000 |
| 2020 | Capital Research Center | IRS Form 990 (2020) ↗ | $100,000 |
| Total | $325,000 | ||
Why this matters
Transparency starts with following the money.
When a self-styled “watchdog” is bankrolled by the very interests it serves, the public deserves to know. Share this investigation. Put it in front of reporters and lawmakers. Help hold Capital Research Center’s funders accountable.