Frequently Asked Questions
What is a PAC?
PAC, short for Political Action Committee, is a private group organized to bring to office elected officials and have an impact on legislation. This is typically done by collecting donations from private citizens and contributing those monies to bring elected officials into office that will support that particular PACs interests.
What is the LRC-PAC?
The LRC-PAC is the non-partisan political action committee of the Lansing Regional Chamber, organized with the purpose of maintaining a pro-business attitude among elected officials and legislation in the Lansing area.
Who runs the LRC-PAC?
The LRC-PAC is run by a volunteer Board of Directors. An elected Chairperson oversees the meetings.
How is the LRC-PAC Board comprised?
The LRC-PAC Board is made up of volunteers from varying business sizes and types.
Who contributes to the LRC-PAC?
Anyone can contribute to the LRC-PAC.
What is a typical donation amount?
LRC-PAC contribution amounts vary, from $25 to as much as $1,500.
What election races does the LRC-PAC contribute to?
The LRC-PAC stays involved in monitoring many election races including races for Lansing City Council, LCC Trusteeships, Michigan State Representatives, Michigan State Senators, the Lansing Area School Board Members, local Township Board Members, and Ingham County Commissioners.
How are candidates chosen for endorsement by the LRC-PAC?
Each year the LRC-PAC surveys Chamber members regarding their views on current issues and upcoming elections online. From those responses a questionnaire is put together and sent out to every registered candidate for particular upcoming elections. Based on candidate responses, LRC-PAC Board members conduct candidate interviews and review candidates backgrounds before making recommendations to the full LRC-PAC Board. A majority vote from the LRC-PAC Board is required for a candidate to receive endorsement.
What types of monies are accepted by the LRC-PAC?
Personal voluntary funds and checks from LLCs and Partnerships as long as the funds are contributed to specific partners.
Why can't corporate checks be accepted by a PAC?
Under Michigan Campaign Finance Law a PAC cannot receive funding from corporate contributions.
Why should I contribute to the LRC-PAC?
Elected officials make decisions that will impact you and your business. By making a contribution to the LRC-PAC you are ensuring that candidates in favor of your business interests have a better chance of being elected.
How does the LRC-PAC ensure pro-business attitudes stay in Lansing?
By staying abreast of business issues and communicating the business perspective to elected officials, monitoring political activity to know when business intervention is necessary, and knowing the voting record of elected officials and whether they support the business community.
How is the contribution amount for a candidate endorsement decided?
The LRC-PAC Board votes on the contribution amount per endorsed candidate based on the individual race and need for funding.
