Understanding Super PACs and PACs

The video tutorial explains the differences between Political Action Committees (PACs) and Super PACs, highlighting the impact of the Citizens United decision. It clarifies misconceptions about advertising rules and contribution limits, emphasizing that while both PACs and Super PACs can air political ads, only PACs can contribute directly to campaigns. Super PACs, however, can raise unlimited funds independently. The tutorial concludes by summarizing the key differences and changes in regulations post-Citizens United.

What is the primary difference between a PAC and a Super PAC?

• Both can donate directly to candidates.

• Super PACs can donate directly to candidates, PACs cannot.

• PACs can donate directly to candidates, Super PACs cannot.

• Neither can donate directly to candidates.

Which statement about political advertisements is incorrect?

• PACs cannot air ads 30 days before an election.

• Super PACs cannot air ads 30 days before an election.

• Super PACs can air ads anytime before an election.

• Both PACs and Super PACs can air ads anytime.

What was the impact of the Citizens United vs. FEC decision?

• It banned the creation of Super PACs.

• It allowed unlimited contributions to Super PACs.

• It restricted PACs from airing ads.

• It limited the number of PACs.

How do Super PACs differ in their contribution capabilities compared to PACs?

• PACs cannot contribute to campaigns.

• Super PACs can only make independent expenditures.

• PACs can contribute unlimited amounts to candidates.

• Super PACs can contribute directly to candidates.

What is a key characteristic of Super PACs?

• They have spending limits.

• They operate independently of candidate campaigns.

• They can donate directly to political parties.

• They are restricted by the FEC.

Which of the following is true about PACs?

• They can make independent expenditures.

• They are not regulated by the FEC.

• They have no spending limits.

• They cannot contribute to candidate campaigns.

What did the Citizens United decision change about PACs?

• It allowed them to contribute directly to candidates.

• It imposed stricter regulations.

• It changed how they are governed.

• It banned their creation.

What is a common misconception about Super PACs?

• They are the same as PACs.

• They cannot air ads before an election.

• They have spending limits.

• They can donate directly to candidates.

How did the Citizens United decision affect Super PACs?

• It restricted their spending.

• It allowed them to operate independently.

• It banned their creation.

• It limited their advertising.

What is the main role of Super PACs?

• To donate directly to candidates.

• To limit campaign spending.

• To regulate PACs.

• To make independent expenditures.