Glossary

Political action committee

An organization that raises and spends money from members or donors to support or oppose candidates, subject to federal limits.

Also called: PAC, connected PAC, separate segregated fund

A political action committee (PAC) is an organization that pools contributions from individuals to give to candidates or to spend in elections. The term was originally used for groups formed by labor unions in the 1940s and was extended after campaign finance reforms in the 1970s.

Federal law divides PACs into types. A "connected" PAC, also called a separate segregated fund, is sponsored by a corporation, union or trade association and can solicit contributions only from a limited class, such as employees and members. A "nonconnected" PAC is formed independently and can solicit the public. Traditional PACs may give a limited amount per election to a candidate, and they must register and file regular reports with the Federal Election Commission. Leadership PACs are formed by politicians to support others.

PACs are a key part of how interest groups influence elections. Supporters say they let like-minded citizens combine small donations and take part in politics. Critics argue they give special interests access to lawmakers. They differ from the Super PAC, which may raise unlimited sums but cannot give directly to candidates. Their rules sit at the center of the post-Citizens United v. FEC debate on campaign finance, along with dark money.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

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Related terms

Super PAC A political committee that can raise unlimited sums to support or oppose candidates but may not coordinate with them or give them money. Citizens United v. FEC The 2010 Supreme Court ruling that the First Amendment bars limits on independent political spending by corporations and unions. Dark money A label for political spending by groups, such as certain nonprofits, that do not have to disclose the original donors. Midterm election The general election held midway through a president's four-year term, in which all House seats and about a third of Senate seats are contested.