What is a Super PAC?

A Super PAC, or "independent expenditure-only committee," is defined by its capacity to raise and spend unlimited amounts of money to influence elections, provided that it does not coordinate directly with a candidate or political party's campaign. This characteristic of being able to raise unlimited funds distinguishes Super PACs from traditional political action committees (PACs), which are subject to contribution limits. Super PACs have become significant players in the political landscape, particularly since the Supreme Court's ruling in Citizens United v. FEC (2010), which allowed for this type of unlimited financial support. Their primary function is to advocate for or against candidates through independent advertisements and outreach without direct affiliation, which emphasizes their independence in electoral communications.