Silicon Valley Bank executives gave to Democrats and Republicans

Before they went down in history as two of the largest bank failures in the U.S., executives for Silicon Valley Bank of California and Signature Bank of New York were political donors who steered their money toward people who influence financial services laws.

Silicon Valley Bank Political Action Committee gave to Democrats and Republicans with the most influence over their industry, while the bank’s executives used their own money to donate more often to Democrats, according to a review of filings with the Federal Election Commission. Executives for Signature Bank gave to a steady mix of Republicans and Democrats.

Several lawmakers showed up repeatedly in records from the Federal Election Commission, such as Rep. Patrick McHenry, R-N.C., the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y. Other donations that executives made appeared to reflect their personal interests. 

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Graphic:Silicon Valley Bank collapse explained

How Silicon Valley Bank PAC donated to lawmakers. 

Silicon Valley Bank PAC posted five-figure fundraising totals during most election cycles dating back to 1998, maxing out in 2011 and 2012 when it brought in about $60,000. Much of the money the PAC could pool and spend over the years has come from Silicon Valley Bank executives. Some of its major recipients include: