Tracking The Soft Money

What is “soft money”? What is “hard money”?

“Soft money” contributions are sometimes called “nonfederal” contributions because they are given to political parties for purposes other than supporting candidates for federal office. There are no limits on contributions of soft money.

“Hard money” is money given directly to candidates for federal elective office and is regulated. There are limits of the amount of hard money donated to political campaigns.

Soft money provides a channel for lobbyists to donate huge sums of money in return for favors, information, or influence from candidates or committees.

Special interest money also helps funding political conventions, parties, dinners, etc. Corporations or individuals can gain political influence by sending lobbyists to donate.

Contributions from lobby firms can get more bang out of the buck by contributing to individuals that are experts on tax knowledge. More can be gained by obtaining access to tax information. It can be understood how corporations benefit from soft money.

OpenSecrets.org  provides lists of donors and recipients of federal candidate, PAC, or party committee.

Find The Players
1.  Top Recipients
2.  Top Spenders
3.  Top Lobbying Firms
4.  Top Contracts
5.  Top Agencies
6.  Lobbying Taxes