A Wired magazine investigation by reporter Taylor Lorenz alleges that a Democratic-aligned dark-money group has been quietly paying several social-media commentators to promote party messaging, without requiring them to disclose the financial arrangement to their audiences. Among those named is political commentator David Pakman, whose online show reaches more than one million subscribers. Pakman acknowledged receiving funding but argued that progressive creators need financial backing comparable to that available to conservative media. Critics across the political spectrum said the practice amounts to undisclosed partisan advertising and undermines claims of editorial independence. The report has intensified scrutiny of influencer transparency rules and the role of unreported political spending ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.