Can a section 501(c)(3) organization invite a political candidate to speak at an organization event for reasons other than his or her candidacy for public office? If an organization invites a candidate to speak in a non-candidate capacity, it must ensure that: a. The individual is chosen to speak solely for reasons other than candidacy for public office; b. The individual speaks only in a non-candidate capacity; c. Neither the candidate nor any representative of the organization makes any mention of the individual's candidacy or the election; d. No campaign activity occurs in connection with the candidate's attendance; e. The organization maintains a nonpartisan atmosphere on the premises or at the event where the candidate is present; and f. The organization clearly indicates the capacity in which the candidate is appearing and does not mention the individual’s political candidacy or the upcoming election in the communications announcing the candidate’s attendance at the event.
