Political Action Committees, or PACs, are organizations that collect and distribute funds to support political candidates and causes. They play a significant role in the electoral process by raising money from individuals and organizations to influence elections and legislation. PACs can be affiliated with corporations, labor unions, or ideological groups, and they often focus on specific issues or interests. PACs operate under regulations set by the Federal Election Commission (FEC) in the United States, which governs their fundraising and spending activities. They can contribute directly to candidates' campaigns or spend independently to advocate for or against political issues. This makes PACs a powerful force in shaping political landscapes and public policy.