Final answer:
To run for the US House of Representatives, a person must campaign for either a party nomination or gather enough signatures for ballot placement. PACs can influence this process through financial contributions and endorsements, which may later affect the behaviors and decisions of elected Congress members due to perceived obligations to their contributors.
Step-by-step explanation:
Securing a Party Nomination for the US House of Representatives
A person desiring to run for the US House of Representatives must begin by publicly declaring their interest and embarking on a campaign to gain a party nomination or secure enough signatures to be placed on the ballot. This early campaigning phase involves public appearances, speeches, media presence, and social media engagement, with the goal of obtaining enough delegates or signatures. Following this, one must participate in political primaries or caucuses to earn delegates and win the party’s nomination. Each state has its own rules that dictate the nomination process.
Influence of Political Action Committees (PACs)
Political action committees (PACs) can greatly influence the nominating process by contributing to candidates' campaigns, both financially and through endorsements. They may provide support during the campaign before a candidate has secured their party’s nomination. PACs often contribute to those who align with their interests, which can impact both the resources available to a candidate and their visibility to voters.
Behavior of Members of Congress
The involvement of PACs in the election process can affect the behavior of a member of Congress. Once elected, members may feel pressure to support the policies and interests of the PACs that contributed to their campaigns, potentially influencing legislative priorities and decisions.