What is a political action committee (PAC)?

A political action committee (PAC) is defined as an organization that raises and spends money to elect candidates and influence the political process. This is done primarily by pooling contributions from members or stakeholders who support a particular political agenda, party, or candidate. PACs can contribute directly to a candidate's campaign and also engage in independent expenditure activities to advocate for candidates or issues.

The focus on fundraising is crucial because PACs play a significant role in the electoral process, particularly in U.S. politics, where campaign financing can heavily influence election outcomes. They are often associated with specific interest groups or organizations that seek to advance their political and social agendas through financial support.

Understanding the role of PACs is important in the context of political advocacy, as they are a key mechanism through which individuals and organizations can influence legislation and governance by backing candidates who promote their interests. This financing approach enables them to amplify their voices in the political arena effectively.