Shelby’s millions in campaign funds: How he can spend it before he retires

The wide leeway granted to PACs is troublesome, according to Erin Chlopak, director of campaign strategy for the Campaign Legal Center, a campaign finance watchdog group. “Leadership PACs are a loophole – they’re intended to allow candidates to raise money to help other members or other candidates get elected, other politicians, but they are a frequent source for lavish spending,” she said. “The leadership PAC loophole, this is a real serious problem.” For instance, Chlopak noted, the leadership PAC organized by Republican Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul spent less than 7 percent of its total spending toward contributions to other candidates or committees.

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