What is the primary function of political action committees (PACs)?

The primary function of political action committees (PACs) is to raise and spend money to elect candidates and influence legislation. PACs serve as a means for individuals and organizations to pool their resources and make contributions to political campaigns, thereby increasing their influence in the political process. They are regulated under federal law to limit the amount of money they can contribute to candidates and parties, ensuring transparency in the political funding process.

PACs can support specific candidates who align with their interests or policy goals and are crucial players in the election process, particularly during campaigns. They also engage in independent expenditures, which allow them to spend money on campaign-related activities without directly coordinating with candidates. Through these activities, PACs aim to influence the legislative agenda by supporting candidates who are likely to promote policies favorable to their interests once elected.

Other options, while they involve aspects of political engagement, do not capture the central role of PACs in the political landscape. For instance, organizing grassroots campaigns involves mobilizing community support, which is more related to community organizing or advocacy groups rather than the primary function of PACs. Creating new political parties or drafting legislation for Congress are activities typically outside the defined scope of PACs, as PACs primarily focus on financial contributions and electoral influence.