Political action committees, or PACs, are organizations that collect and distribute funds to support political candidates or causes. They are often formed by businesses, labor unions, or interest groups to influence elections and legislation. PACs can contribute directly to candidates' campaigns and engage in independent spending to promote their agendas. There are two main types of PACs: connected and non-connected. Connected PACs are affiliated with a specific organization, while non-connected PACs operate independently. Both types must adhere to regulations set by the Federal Election Commission regarding contribution limits and reporting requirements.