What is a Single Candidate Committee? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Definition & Meaning

A single candidate committee is a type of political committee that focuses exclusively on supporting one candidate. Unlike a principal campaign committee, which is directly associated with a candidate's campaign, a single candidate committee can make contributions or expenditures on behalf of that candidate. This structure allows for targeted financial support and campaigning efforts for a specific individual running for office.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A group of supporters forms a single candidate committee to raise funds exclusively for a mayoral candidate. They organize events and solicit donations to help finance the candidate's campaign activities.

Example 2: A political action group creates a single candidate committee to advocate for a congressional candidate by running advertisements and distributing campaign materials (hypothetical example).

State-by-state differences

State Key Differences
California Requires additional reporting for contributions over a certain amount.
Texas Has specific limits on contributions to single candidate committees.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Principal Campaign Committee A committee directly associated with a candidate's campaign. Supports multiple aspects of a campaign, unlike a single candidate committee.
Political Action Committee (PAC) A group that raises and spends money to elect candidates. PACs can support multiple candidates, while single candidate committees focus on one.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering forming a single candidate committee, start by reviewing the relevant federal and state regulations. You may want to consult legal professionals to ensure compliance. Additionally, explore US Legal Forms for templates that can help you set up your committee effectively.

Quick facts

  • Supports only one candidate.
  • Must comply with federal election laws.
  • Can raise and spend money on behalf of the candidate.
  • Distinct from principal campaign committees and PACs.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

Its primary purpose is to support one specific candidate through fundraising and expenditures.