Final answer:
The statement that a PAC is the mechanism through which a group funnels contributions to candidates is true. PACs are regulated by the FEC and have contribution limits, while super PACs can raise unlimited funds but cannot contribute directly to candidates or parties. True.
Step-by-step explanation:
A political action committee (PAC) is indeed the mechanism through which a group funnels its contributions to candidates. This statement is true. PACs are formed by interest groups, corporations, or even individuals with the purpose of raising money to support or defeat political candidates. These committees are regulated by the Federal Election Commission (FEC), with specific limitations on contribution amounts.
PACs can contribute up to $5,000 to a single candidate per election, and the same amount can be accepted from any single individual. However, contributions to super PACs are not subject to these limits, though super PACs cannot contribute directly to candidates or parties.
Leadership PACs, formed by politicians like senators or representatives, are designed to support other candidates' campaigns, further establishing the crucial role of PACs in election funding. Notably, businesses and special interest groups often operate traditional PACs within the confines of regulatory limits to support their interests in the political arena.