Rules of the Game: Federal Elections 101
Topics
Affiliated Organizations, Ballot Measures, Election Related Activities, Funding Advocacy, Influencing Legislation
![](https://afj.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/ROTG-Federal-Elections-101.png)
On this episode, we’ll discuss the basics of federal election law, including what it regulates, and which tax-exempt organizations need to be aware of it. We’ll also review recent FEC opinions that allow for interesting pre- and post-election activities for non-501(c)(3) organizations involving federal candidates.
Our Attorneys for this Episode:
Quyen Tu Susan Finkle-Sourlis Tim Mooney
What We Cover:
Federal Election Law Basics:Â
- Overview of federal campaign finance regulations
- Role of the Federal Elections Commission (FEC)
- Differences between federal and state campaign finance laws
Key Regulations:
- Source prohibitions and contribution limits
- Types of source prohibitions (e.g., corporations, foreign nationals)
- Contribution limits and exceptions for PACs and Super PACs
In-Kind Contributions and Coordinated Activities:
- Definition and examples of in-kind contributions
- Coordination with candidates and the implications
Recent FEC Opinions and Rulings:
- Door-to-door canvassing coordination
- Internet exception for unpaid communications
Ballot Initiatives and Federal Candidates:
- Federal candidates’ involvement in state and local ballot measures
- Recent advisory opinions from the FEC
Post-Election Activities:
- Ballot curing coordination with federal candidates
- Compliance requirements and legal considerations
Resources:
- Rules of the Game
- The Connection (newly updated)
- Blog post on coordinating canvassing (AFJ Action)