The damage the Lincoln Project did to former President Trump was enormous.

With constant advertisements, videos, and interviews, they mocked him, pointed out his lies, and bombarded him with ruthless, relentless criticism.

It was a group of veteran Republican political advisers who had worked on campaigns such as that of John McCain and others, with one specific goal: to protect American democracy from Trump.

To achieve this, he had to be defeated in the election.

That they were Republicans ‘dressed’ them with a veil of credibility with the audience they were targeting.

For quite some time they were almost unknown.

Until one night Donald Trump, who was so angry about an ad against him, attacked them in the worst way: in a series of tweets.

He saved them. Hundreds of thousands of people suddenly became acquainted with them and began to watch them and support them financially.

They could not keep up with the money that was being sent.

They raised a total of $87 million from some 500,000 donors, most of whom donated less than $200, thinking they were doing their civic duty.

It seemed to be an organization with integrity. And transparency.

It was certain that Trump's people were keeping an eye on them.

They presented an image of morality and patriotism. A moral superiority was projected by their advertisements, videos, and their public speaking.

So, it was not long before the networks began to call them to be frequent commentators on the TV programs who supported Trump's opponents.

This, in turn, helped increase the contributions they received from people.

And this angered Trump even more, who, unrestrained as he was, attacked them frequently, thus confirming their effectiveness.

Until a bomb exploded recently: while their work was amazing, it was revealed that the moral superiority they displayed was imaginary.

Although the four founders looked like volunteers, it was revealed that they shared about $27 million in salary, without anyone else knowing.

And it was also revealed that one of the founders had a long history of sexually harassing young men. The harassment was allegedly reported to members of the Board of Directors, but they did not take action.

This organization, impressively named the Lincoln Project, probably began with good intentions. Eventually, however, it seems that they took the wrong path when the money started to flow.

It is reminiscent of the post-election opacity of Trump's $270 million fundraising effort, which he said was going to be used to fight in the courts to prevent the Democrats from ‘stealing’ the election.

What has become of this money?

The downside of such stories is that they create mistrust in the public, thus prompting people not to give even to causes that are worthwhile.

And that is a real loss.