Fast Facts on ChamberPAC
ChamberPAC is a bipartisan political action committee of the Pennsylvania Chamber of Business and Industry, whose purpose is to contribute to pro-job, pro-growth candidates who believe in business's rights to compete on an equal basis in the world marketplace. ChamberPAC is governed by a Board of Directors consisting of volunteer business leaders.
- ChamberPAC can only receive individual contributions. Corporate contributions are prohibited.
- The funds raised from business leaders across Pennsylvania are pooled. They are then used as political contributions to incumbents or candidates seeking elective office. ChamberPAC contributes to candidates for the Pennsylvania General Assembly and statewide offices who have been supportive of business issues and have been recommended by ChamberPAC contributes.
- Contributions to ChamberPAC are not deductible for state or federal tax purposes.
- Individuals have a variety of methods to contribute by:
- Direct personal check or money order
- Personal credit card account
- Monthly
- Biannually
- One-time
Frequently Asked Questions
Why contribute to ChamberPAC?
Pennsylvania business is directly impacted by laws developed by elected officials. Every year, the state legislature spends months considering proposed legislation that could affect businesses' bottom lines. Through the financial support provided by ChamberPAC we seek to elect more pro-business candidates to the legislature. We contribute to pro-job, pro-growth candidates who believe in business's right to compete on an equal basis in the world marketplace. For a growing, vibrant economy that leads to good jobs and strong communities, Pennsylvania businesses need a strong PAC. ChamberPAC's strength is in our numbers!
Do our Chamber dues pay for this?
No. By law, our association cannot contribute for you. Business leaders must make all political contributions personally and voluntarily. Your contribution has a ripple effect across the political spectrum; it really does make us more effective.
Don't PACs just buy votes?
No single PAC can sway a legislator's vote. The majority of our elected officials are ethical people who cannot be bought. In addition, there are approximately 1,100 political committees registered in Pennsylvania and more than 4,200 PACs in the country. PACs offer a legitimate way for business leaders to support those candidates who share Pennsylvania job creators concerns and perspectives, or who are at least receptive to our views.
Does any part of my contribution go toward the administration of ChamberPAC?
No. Every single dollar contributed to ChamberPAC goes directly to candidates — not one penny is used to pay administrative expenses.
Who contributes to ChamberPAC?
ChamberPAC receives voluntary contributions from eligible Chamber members.
Who is in charge of ChamberPAC?
Chamber members like you! ChamberPAC is administered by a Chairman and a Board of Directors made up of senior level business leaders from across the Commonwealth.
Who decides which candidates should receive ChamberPAC financial support?
Members of the ChamberPAC Board of Directors make the final decision on candidate contributions. The Board considers recommendations from Chamber members.
What if I choose not to contribute at this time?
That is your choice. Election laws state that you cannot be coerced to participate. However, the earlier you contribute, the earlier we can support business advocates. We don't want to wait until it's too late in the campaign, when we have been out-spent by our competitors.
How will I know what happens to my contribution?
ChamberPAC reports its contributions to the Pennsylvania's Bureau of Commissions Elections and Legislation as required by law. A separate report detailing the total amount of contributions to ChamberPAC is published in the PA Chamber's Magazine, “the Catalyst”. At any time you may request a copy of the reports by calling the PA Chamber office.
Can I claim an income tax credit or deduction for my contribution?
No. Political contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income taxes.
What if I already give directly to candidates?
That's great – you should! But you should also give to ChamberPAC. ChamberPAC represents the unified voice of business in Pennsylvania. The pooling of contributions from many supportive business leaders allows ChamberPAC to make one large contribution to a candidate on behalf of job creators in Pennsylvania; in other words, it provides more “bang for the buck.”
Will you give to a political party I don't support?
ChamberPAC is a bipartisan political action committee, and the PA Chamber's membership is active in both political parties.
ChamberPAC does not support candidates just because of their party affiliation. We consider the integrity and character of the candidate, his/her leadership position and committee assignment, demonstrated interest in and support for business issues, and the opposition he/she faces in an upcoming election.
What if I can't afford it?
Any contribution you can make is greatly appreciated. Your voluntary participation in the campaign fund is more important than the amount you give. But remember, your contribution goes to support candidates who work for an improved business climate – that's something you can't afford to put off.
