PACs assist candidates in getting elected to seats of power.
Political action committees, or PACs, are formally assembled groups designed to raise funds for the purposes of advancing an issue, leading a candidate to victory or defeating an opponent. PACs must follow strict Federal Election Committee guidelines, which determine how the PAC can be formed and how it can raise money. Running a PAC takes vision and a talent for delegating responsibility. Surround yourself with skilled politicos to make your PAC a force for change and action.
Instructions
1. Become well-versed in PAC guidelines, as determined by the FEC. Log online. Click and find the guidelines under the "Laws and Regulations" tab. Study all content regarding campaign-finance law. Distribute these guidelines and be sure committee members are familiar with them as well.
2. State and carry out a specific mission for the PAC. Keep the PAC philosophy at the core of all decision-making and strategy outlines going forward.
3. Select eligible donors to target and decide how you will solicit funds. Create and oversee the implementation of the plan with trusted PAC members. Determine the need for solicitation materials and how these resources conform to FEC rules and regulations.
4. Establish and manage a budget for the PAC. Determine if you have enough funds to influence primary campaigns or if you should only stick to general elections. Decide on advertising strategy --- radio or television ads, for example --- and how you intend to implement it.
5. Ensure all FEC compliance reports are filed accurately and on time. Consider appointing and overseeing a compliance treasurer whose specific job is to file those reports. Contact the FEC at any time to obtain forms and additional information. Avoid any delay in filing FEC reports as you may incur substantial financial penalties.
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