What is the primary function of a Super PAC?

The primary function of a Super PAC is to fund communications and advertisements for a candidate. Super PACs, or "independent expenditure-only committees," are capable of raising and spending unlimited amounts of money to promote candidates or influence electoral outcomes as long as they do not coordinate directly with the candidates' campaigns. This ability to finance substantial campaign advertisements and communications makes Super PACs a crucial element in the modern electoral landscape, as they can significantly amplify a candidate's message and reach a broader audience.

While a candidate’s campaign can coordinate its spending directly with political parties, Super PACs are specifically designed to operate independently in their fundraising efforts, which distinguishes them from traditional political action committees that do have limits on contributions and expenditures. They do not directly donate money to candidates, nor are they primarily focused on raising funds through the mail, although some may utilize various fundraising strategies. The emphasis on funding communications and advertisements encapsulates their role in shaping the political narrative and leveraging substantial financial resources for electoral advantage.