James O'Keefe

James O’Keefe is an American political activist and journalist who founded Project Veritas, an organization recognized for using undercover recordings and editing techniques to investigate mainstream media organizations and progressive groups. O’Keefe and Project Veritas have produced secretly recorded audio and video encounters in academic, governmental, and social service organizations, claiming to reveal abusive or illegal behavior. These recordings have often been selectively edited, drawing criticism for misrepresenting context and subjects' responses.

O’Keefe served as chairman of Project Veritas until his removal by the organization’s board amid controversy over finances, management style, and allegations of financial malfeasance with donor money. Following his departure, Project Veritas experienced organizational instability and ultimately suspended all operations. O’Keefe subsequently launched O’Keefe Media Group.

O’Keefe’s investigations have influenced political discourse, leading to legislative changes, federal and state investigations, and significant media attention in the political journalism and media ethics spheres. He is the recipient of the Robert Novak Award for Journalistic Excellence, has twice been named Fox News Power Player of the Week, and was included in Forbes 30 Under 30 for media moguls. O’Keefe is also the author of the New York Times bestseller, "Breakthrough: Our Guerrilla War to Expose Fraud and Save Democracy."