Campaign Finance Regulations and Super PACs

The video tutorial explains independent expenditure in political campaigns, highlighting the difference between soft and hard money. It discusses the creation and role of Super PACs following the Citizens United decision, which allows unlimited independent spending by individuals and groups. The video also covers how Super PACs operate, their legal constraints, and their significant impact on political advertising, often through negative ads.

What is the main difference between soft money and hard money as per the BCRA?

• Hard money has no donation limits.

• Soft money is subject to strict regulations.

• Hard money donations are limited and given directly to candidates or parties.

• Soft money can be donated directly to candidates.

What defines an independent expenditure?

• Money spent directly by a candidate.

• Spending by individuals or groups not associated with a campaign.

• Funds donated to a political party.

• Donations made to a Super PAC.

What is a common strategy used by wealthy individuals who have maxed out their hard money donations?

• They stop contributing to campaigns.

• They create independent advertisements.

• They form new political parties.

• They donate to other political parties.

What was the impact of the Citizens United decision on campaign finance?

• It required all political ads to be truthful.

• It banned Super PACs.

• It allowed unlimited independent expenditures by corporations and unions.

• It limited the amount individuals could donate to campaigns.

How do Super PACs differ from traditional PACs?

• Super PACs can donate directly to candidates.

• Super PACs have spending limits.

• Super PACs can raise unlimited funds for independent expenditures.

• Super PACs are subject to strict regulations.

What is the primary legal requirement for Super PACs?

• They must focus on positive advertising.

• They must disclose all donors.

• They cannot coordinate with candidates or campaigns.

• They must limit spending to $5,000 per candidate.

What is the role of a Super PAC in political campaigns?

• To limit the influence of money in politics.

• To coordinate with political parties.

• To directly fund candidates.

• To independently spend unlimited funds on political advertising.

What is a key characteristic of Super PAC advertisements?

• They are limited in budget.

• They are often positive and supportive.

• They must be approved by the candidate.

• They do not have to be truthful.

What is a potential consequence of the lack of regulation on Super PACs?

• The spread of misleading or negative information.

• Decreased political spending.

• More positive campaign messages.

• Increased transparency in political advertising.

What is a defining feature of advertisements created by a candidate's campaign?

• They do not require approval from the candidate.

• They are always negative.

• They must include the candidate's approval statement.

• They are funded by Super PACs.