The Manhattan Institute is a right-wing policy and communications shop. Initially, its pet projects included propping up “Reaganomics” and arguing for the privatization of key social services, but it is currently known for its regressive stance on healthcare, defending police powers, and leeching funding away from the public school system. The Institute receives significant funding from the oil and gas industry and spreads climate science denial propaganda.
Paul Singer
Multi-billionaire Paul Singer is the current Chairman of the Board of Trustees for the Manhattan Institute. He contributed $8,760,000 to the Manhattan institute between 2011 and 2022, funding $1,635,000 in 2022 alone.
Harlan and Kathy Crow
Kathy Crow, wife of real estate mogul Harlan Crow, is a current Trustee of the Manhattan Institute.
Koch Network
Among the Institute’s key contributors are the billionaire Koch brothers. The Manhattan Institute received $3,182,717 from Koch organizations and foundations between 1997 and 2017. The Manhattan Institute is also an associate member of the Koch-linked State Policy Network.
Leonard Leo
Leonard Leo’s 85 Fund gave the Manhattan institute $450,000 in 2022.