DOJ Directs Multiple U.S. Attorneys to Probe Soros-Funded Open Society Foundations for Terrorism Ties

The Department of Justice has instructed at least six U.S. attorney's offices to investigate the Open Society Foundations, a grant-making organization funded by billionaire George Soros, for potential criminal violations including material support for terrorism.

A directive from Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche's office, dated September 24, was sent to prosecutors in California, New York, Washington, D.C., Chicago, Detroit, and Maryland. Aakash Singh, a lawyer in Blanche's office, cited a Capital Research Center report alleging the foundations disbursed over $80 million since 2016 to groups linked to terrorism or extremist violence.

The report highlights funding to Palestinian group al-Haq, designated a terrorist organization by Israel in October 2021 and raided in August 2022. Prosecutors were asked to assess if these claims warrant cases on charges including racketeering, arson, wire fraud, and material support for terrorism, with investigative plans due soon.

The directive follows President Trump's weekend urging of Attorney General Pam Bondi to pursue charges against Soros. In August, Trump called for RICO charges against Soros and son Alexander for allegedly funding violent protests. After Charlie Kirk's September 10 assassination, Trump labeled Soros a "bad guy" who "should be put in jail."

Open Society Foundations denied funding terrorism, stating its activities are "peaceful and lawful" and the probe constitutes "politically motivated attacks on civil society" to undermine free speech. The organization, which supports human rights and advocacy, faces no prior terrorism designations.

The move aligns with impending indictments for former FBI Director James Comey and New York Attorney General Letitia James, confirmed by media outlets on September 24. No charges have been filed against the foundations.