Super PACs

Definition

Super PACs, or 'independent expenditure-only committees,' are organizations that can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to influence elections, as long as they do not coordinate directly with candidates or political parties. They emerged following the Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United v. FEC in 2010, which lifted restrictions on independent political spending, making it easier for wealthy individuals and corporations to have a substantial impact on elections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Super PACs can accept contributions from individuals, corporations, and unions without any limits, allowing them to amass significant financial resources for political campaigns.
2. Although Super PACs cannot coordinate with candidates, they often support a candidate's campaign by running ads that align with the candidate's platform and message.
3. The total amount spent by Super PACs in elections has increased dramatically since their inception, often overshadowing traditional campaign financing methods.
4. Super PACs are required to disclose their donors, but some can still operate with a degree of anonymity through 'dark money' organizations that do not have the same transparency requirements.
5. The influence of Super PACs has raised concerns about the potential for corruption and the overwhelming impact of money on the electoral process and public policy.

Review Questions

• How did the ruling in Citizens United v. FEC influence the formation and function of Super PACs in modern elections?
  • The Supreme Court's decision in Citizens United v. FEC significantly changed the landscape of campaign finance by allowing for unlimited independent expenditures. This ruling led to the creation of Super PACs, which can raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to influence elections without directly coordinating with candidates or parties. The result is a powerful mechanism for wealthy individuals and organizations to amplify their voices in political discourse and shape electoral outcomes.
• Evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of Super PACs in relation to traditional Political Action Committees (PACs) within the context of election campaigns.
  • Super PACs offer several advantages over traditional PACs, such as the ability to raise unlimited funds from various sources, which allows them to mount substantial advertising campaigns. However, this also raises significant concerns regarding transparency and accountability, as their funding can come from anonymous sources. Traditional PACs have stricter contribution limits but are often seen as more transparent. The existence of Super PACs has led to a debate over whether they enhance or undermine democratic processes in elections.
• Analyze how Super PACs impact voter perception and participation in elections, considering both positive and negative aspects.
  • Super PACs can significantly impact voter perception by funding persuasive advertisements that shape public opinion about candidates and issues. On the positive side, they can raise awareness about important topics and mobilize voters. However, their influence can also lead to voter disillusionment if citizens feel overwhelmed by negative ads or perceive elections as being overly influenced by money rather than grassroots support. This dynamic can ultimately affect voter turnout and engagement, contributing to polarization within the electorate.

Related terms

Citizens United v. FEC:

A landmark Supreme Court case that ruled that corporate funding of independent political broadcasts cannot be limited, leading to the rise of Super PACs.

Political Action Committee (PAC): A committee that raises and spends money to elect or defeat candidates, typically limited in the amount they can contribute directly to a candidate.

Campaign Finance Reform:

Legislation aimed at regulating the raising and spending of money in political campaigns to ensure transparency and limit the influence of money in politics.