Political Action Committee

Definition

A political action committee (PAC) is an organization formed to raise and spend money to support or oppose political candidates, ballot initiatives, or legislative issues during elections. PACs are typically created by businesses, labor unions, interest groups, or individuals who want to influence the political process by contributing financially to campaigns.

Example

A group of teachers is concerned about education funding in their state. They form a PAC called "Educators for Better Schools." The PAC raises money from its members and other donors to support candidates who promise to increase school funding. During an election, the PAC donates $50,000 to Candidate A, who is running for state legislature on a platform of education reform. This financial backing helps Candidate A campaign more effectively.

Why It Matters

PACs play a significant role in politics because they amplify the influence of specific interest groups or causes. By pooling resources and donating to candidates who align with their goals, PACs can shape election outcomes and public policy. However, critics argue that PACs can give undue influence to wealthy individuals or corporations, potentially overshadowing the voices of everyday citizens.