What is a political action committee (PAC)?

A political action committee, or PAC, is primarily defined as an organization that raises funds to support political campaigns, candidates, or political parties. PACs play a crucial role in the political process by mobilizing financial resources to influence elections and policy decisions. They can collect contributions from individuals or organizations to support specific electoral candidates or initiatives, thereby participating actively in the political landscape.

Other options, while related to politics, serve different functions. Conducting public opinion polls is typically associated with research organizations or polling firms rather than PACs. A committee that advises the president would generally be understood as part of the executive branch or a specific advisory council, distinctly separate from the fundraising role of a PAC. An agency that regulates campaign finance refers to regulatory bodies such as the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in the United States, which oversees the compliance and enforcement of campaign finance laws, unlike a PAC which is focused on fundraising and donation activities.