A Political Action Committee (PAC) is an organization that collects and distributes contributions to candidates for political office. PACs are typically established by corporations, labor unions, or interest groups to influence legislation and public policy. They play a significant role in American politics by funneling money into campaigns, thereby amplifying the voices of specific interests and potentially skewing the electoral process. The regulations governing PACs aim to promote transparency in political funding, but they also raise concerns about the impact of money in politics, where financial power may overshadow grassroots movements.