What does a Political Action Committee (PAC) do?

A Political Action Committee (PAC) is specifically designed to raise and disburse funds for the purpose of influencing the outcome of elections, which is why the identification of its function is critical for understanding its role in the political process. PACs collect contributions from individuals or organizations and then distribute these funds to support candidates who align with their interests, or to oppose candidates who do not. This financial backing can be crucial for candidates needing resources for advertising, campaign events, and outreach efforts.

While other options might involve activities associated with political campaigns or public opinion, they do not encapsulate the primary function of PACs. Raising money to promote a political party lacks specificity about candidate support, conducting public opinion surveys is separate from direct electoral involvement, and grassroots lobbying efforts focus more on influencing policy rather than directly affecting election outcomes. Thus, the distinctive purpose of PACs lies in their active engagement in funding the electoral process, making them significant players in shaping political landscapes.