Super PACs and Political Campaigns

The video explains the role of political action committees (PACs) and super PACs in U.S. elections. It covers donation limits for PACs and how 2010 court rulings allowed unlimited donations to super PACs from corporations, unions, and individuals. Super PACs cannot directly donate to candidates but can fund independent activities like advertising. Despite their financial power, super PACs' influence on election outcomes is not guaranteed.

What is the maximum amount an individual can donate to a PAC per year?

• $1,000

• $5,000

• $20,000

• $10,000

What significant change occurred in 2010 regarding PACs?

• PACs were banned from accepting corporate donations.

• PACs were allowed to donate directly to candidates without limits.

• Super PACs were created, allowing unlimited donations.

• PACs were required to disclose all donors publicly.

Which of the following activities can Super PACs engage in?

• Directly funding a candidate's campaign

• Coordinating directly with candidates

• Hiring campaign staff for candidates

• Paying for political advertising

What is a restriction placed on Super PACs?

• They cannot accept donations from individuals.

• They cannot engage in any political activities.

• They cannot spend more than $1 million per election cycle.

• They cannot coordinate directly with candidates.

How do Super PACs and candidates often indirectly coordinate?

• By holding joint press conferences

• By sharing polling data on social media

• By exchanging emails directly

• By attending the same fundraising events

What is one way candidates help Super PACs create ads?

• By providing them with exclusive interviews

• By posting videos on YouTube for Super PACs to use

• By directly funding the ad production

• By writing scripts for the ads

How much did Super PACs spend during the 2012 election?

• $260 million

• $100 million

• $1 billion

• $596 million

As of March 2016, how much had Super PACs spent in that election cycle?

• $100 million

• $260 million

• $500 million

• $1 billion

What is a common misconception about Super PAC spending?

• It always guarantees election success.

• It is only used for negative advertising.

• It is primarily funded by small donors.

• It is illegal in most states.

What is a challenge faced by candidates despite Super PAC support?

• Insufficient campaign staff

• Inability to boost popularity through ads

• Lack of media coverage

• Limited access to polling data