I have been an AARP member for 14 years, I'm done with them after this

[QueerDuck]

3. AARP is not a political or a liberal organization.

I like them. They do good work and I value my membership benefits and the AARP magazine.

With such a large membership, they cannot be "everything to everybody" ... and during the course of someone's membership, it seems unreasonable to expect to agree with every decision that they make. It seems equally unreasonable to give them the middle finger for their efforts to show appreciation or to give praise to a Republican senator. It was a "thank you" ... not an endorsement.

AARP's public statements often explain that its policy positions are determined by what is best for the 50+ population, based on research and member feedback, not partisan considerations. It engages with lawmakers from both parties who support its priorities. While AARP may endorse or oppose specific pieces of legislation, it does not officially support or oppose candidates or parties. However, given its long history of advocating on politically charged topics, the perception of partisanship remains strong for some.

AARP has repeatedly emphasized that it does not endorse or give money to political candidates. Fact-checking organizations like PolitiFact and USA Today have corroborated that AARP does not donate to either political party.

As you know, AARP is one of the most powerful and well-funded lobbying organizations in Washington, D.C. Its active engagement in federal policy debates (with spending that can reach tens of millions of dollars a year) so I guess that reinforces the perception that it is a highly political entity.