What does campaign finance refer to?

Campaign finance refers to the fundraising and spending related to political campaigns. This includes the money raised by candidates to promote their candidacies, as well as the amounts spent to communicate their messages, organize events, and engage with voters. Understanding campaign finance is crucial because it encompasses the laws and regulations that govern how candidates can raise and spend money, which in turn can significantly impact the election process and the influence of money in politics.

The context of this concept is essential as it underlines the complexities surrounding campaign contributions, the role of political action committees (PACs), and the implications of Supreme Court rulings, such as Citizens United v. FEC, which have further shaped the landscape of campaign financing in the United States. Therefore, the focus on fundraising and spending associated with political campaigns captures the essence of campaign finance as a critical component of the electoral process.