We are a trusted voice in Washington D.C., that amplifies leadership in broadcasting to affect national public policy.


Frequently Asked Questions


  • What is a PAC?

    A PAC is a political action committee used by trade associations, small and large businesses and corporations to support incumbents and candidates for public office. PACs rely on voluntary contributions from people united for the purpose of electing those who support their interests. Federal law states that all contributions must be personal - not corporate.

  • What is NABPAC?

    NABPAC is the only trade association PAC that exists solely to further the goals of America's broadcasters. NABPAC is the only NAB fund legally permitted to donate to federal candidates for public office and is regulated by the Federal Election Commission (FEC).

  • What does NABPAC do?

    NABPAC pools voluntary, personal financial contributions from eligible broadcasters across the country to help elect pro-business, pro-broadcast federal lawmakers to Congress.

  • How does NABPAC choose which public officials to support?

    NABPAC utilizes a questionnaire on radio and television issues that must be completed by candidates without an established legislative record requesting NABPAC support. Support from in-state broadcasters is highly encouraged. The candidates assisted by NABPAC have shown an understanding of what it takes to run a business and have proven records of support for the broadcast industry.

  • Does NABPAC favor candidates from one political party over another?

    No. NABPAC is independent and bipartisan. Candidates and incumbents supported by the PAC are not evaluated on their political party affiliation.

  • Who may contribute to the NABPAC?

    Various classes of individuals are eligible to contribute to NABPAC. Generally, contributions may be made by members of the "restricted class." The restricted class consists of:

    • The association's executive and administrative personnel
    • The families of the above group
    • Individuals who are employed by the National Association of Broadcasters' member companies and have provided Prior Approval to be solicited for donations to this PAC.

  • What is "Prior Approval" and why do I/my company need to sign a form?

    The Federal Election Commission (FEC) requires our political action committee to obtain written approval from corporate members before it may solicit and accept contributions from employees of the member company. Granting Prior Approval does not obligate the company or its employees to support the PAC - it simply gives us permission to communicate in much greater detail about the PAC to certain employees (a member's owners/principals, managers, professional personnel, and other salaried, exempt employees under the Fair Labor Standards Act).

  • Can anyone from the company sign the Prior Approval form?

    Prior Approval may be granted by anyone so authorized by the company. This includes the company's chief executive or the owner/principal, but may also include those designated to represent the company.

  • Do I have to sign a Prior Approval form every year? Can I withdraw approval?

    Only one approval form is required per company; however, a signature is required for each year such approval is authorized. There is no limit on the number of years such approval can be authorized. However, the company may withdraw such approval at any time.

  • If our company signs a Prior Approval form, can a company member contribute to other PACs for a calendar year?

    Yes, when a company signs a NABPAC Prior Approval form, it does not preclude company employees from contributing to a state PAC, candidate PAC, corporate PAC, or an ideological PAC (i.e. National Rifle Association Political Victory Fund, AARP, etc). The only restriction is that a company cannot give prior approval to more than one trade association PAC.

  • Why should a company sign a Prior Approval form?

    NABPAC may not solicit contributions without a signed prior authorization form on-file from corporate members. Granting Prior Approval allows company employees who wish to support NABPAC the ability to do so.

  • How can I get involved with NABPAC?
    Contact us at (202) 429-5314 or send an email to pac@nab.org.