A Political Action Committee (PAC) is an organization that collects and spends money to influence elections or legislation, typically on behalf of a particular interest group, corporation, union, or cause.
Here’s a breakdown:
1. Purpose
PACs are formed to raise and donate money to political candidates, parties, or campaigns that align with their goals. They can also spend money on advertising and other efforts to support or oppose candidates.
2. Legal Structure
PACs are regulated by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in the United States. They must register, report their donors and expenditures, and follow strict limits on contributions.
3. Types of PACs
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Traditional PACs:
Can donate directly to candidates but are limited in how much they can contribute (for example, up to $5,000 per candidate per election).-
Examples: labor union PACs, corporate PACs, trade association PACs.
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Super PACs (Independent Expenditure-Only Committees):
Cannot donate directly to candidates or coordinate with campaigns, but they can spend unlimited amounts on independent efforts like TV ads, mailers, or social media campaigns supporting or opposing candidates.-
Example: Priorities USA Action (supports Democrats), Club for Growth Action (supports conservative candidates).
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Leadership PACs:
Formed by politicians to raise money and support other candidates—often used to build influence within a party.
4. Influence
PACs play a major role in modern American politics by:
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Amplifying special interest influence over policy.
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Funding campaign advertising and outreach.
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Helping candidates who share their policy priorities.
Critics argue that PACs, especially Super PACs, give wealthy donors and corporations outsized influence, while supporters say they enable free political participation and representation of diverse viewpoints.
