Table of Contents
Campaign contributions are regulated to ensure transparency and fairness in elections. Understanding what contributions are allowed and what are prohibited helps donors and candidates comply with legal requirements.
Allowed Campaign Contributions
Individuals, political action committees (PACs), and certain organizations can contribute to political campaigns within specified limits. These contributions are intended to support candidates and political parties.
Commonly accepted contributions include:
- Personal donations from individuals
- Contributions from registered PACs
- Party committee donations
- Certain nonprofit organizations, if they do not engage in prohibited activities
Prohibited Campaign Contributions
Various contributions are illegal or restricted to prevent corruption and undue influence. These include contributions from prohibited sources and those exceeding legal limits.
Prohibited contributions include:
- Contributions from foreign nationals or foreign governments
- Contributions from corporations or labor unions, in some jurisdictions
- Contributions exceeding legal limits
- Contributions made in the name of another person (straw donations)
Additional Regulations
Campaign finance laws also restrict the timing and reporting of contributions. Donors must disclose contributions above certain thresholds, and campaigns are required to file regular reports with authorities.