What is a political action committee (PAC)?

A political action committee (PAC) is specifically designed to raise and spend money to support political candidates, typically during election campaigns. PACs are critical players in the American political landscape, as they can contribute funds to candidates, organize volunteer efforts, and mobilize voters on behalf of the candidates they support. They operate under specific regulations set by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) to ensure transparency and fairness in political fundraising and spending.

The distinction of PACs lies in their primary function—direct involvement in the electoral process to influence the outcome of elections, which aligns with the role they play in the political system. This focus sets them apart from organizations that pursue non-profit initiatives or community service projects, which are oriented toward charitable or social goals rather than electoral politics. Additionally, while local elections may have committees that govern them, those are typically not classified as PACs; rather, they work on a more grassroots level to manage local electoral logistics. PACs are necessary to understand the dynamics of political funding and campaigning within the broader American governmental framework.