A Political Action Committee (PAC) is an organization that raises and spends money to elect or defeat political candidates. PACs are formed to advocate for specific issues or interests, and they play a significant role in the political landscape by influencing elections and legislation through financial contributions and mobilization efforts. PACs can be affiliated with corporations, labor unions, or ideological groups, and they operate under regulations set by the Federal Election Commission (FEC). By pooling resources, PACs can amplify their impact on the political process, making them a vital component of campaign financing in the United States.