FAQS
Helpful Information
WHAT IS A POLITICAL ACTION COMMITTEE (PAC)?
A PAC is a group of people who voluntarily pool their small-dollar donations and resources to increase the impact of their contributions to political candidates.
WHAT IS THE ILA-COPE?
The International Longshoremen’s Association, AFL-CIO, Committee on Political Education (ILA-COPE) solicits and receives money contributions from all longshoremen for use in support of national candidates for political office.
WHAT IS THE LOCAL PAC?
The Local PAC solicits and receives money from union members for use in support of state and local candidates for political office.
IF I CONTRIBUTE MONEY TO THE COPE OR LOCAL PAC, DO I NEED TO CONTRIBUTE TO THE OTHER?
YES, the ILA-COPE and Local PAC are two separate accounts. The COPE is for federal support and activities and the Local PAC is for local & state support and activities. For the most effective representation and support of your goals, you should consider supporting both accounts.
IS PAC MONEY USED TO INFLUENCE POLITICIANS?
The contributions received by the PAC are allocated to candidates whose records reflect that they have a balanced approach to issues that coincide with our organization’s values, goals, and pro-business agenda.
WHY SHOULDN’T I JUST SUPPORT INDIVIDUAL CANDIDATES AND BYPASS THE PAC?
With individual contributions, candidates may not know why you supported them, or which issues matter to you. When a PAC makes a contribution, it sends a strong, collective message that contributors share the interests of their association or industry. There is strength in numbers.
HOW ARE PAC CONTRIBUTIONS USED BY CANDIDATES? WHY DO THEY NEED OUR SUPPORT?
The cost of running for public office has become increasingly expensive. PAC funds go toward many aspects of successful campaigning.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO JOIN THE PAC?
All who use an ILA Hiring Hall are eligible to contribute to the PAC.
WHY SHOULD I JOIN? CAN’T THE ILA PROMOTE ITS OWN INTERESTS?
Your participation helps to get candidates elected that best support our local values and business goals. The ILA does promote its interests through direct discussions, participation in events/activities, and in cooperation with our International office. However, combining our work at the federal, state and local levels with PAC contributions, provides the best positioning for our Locals and its members.
IS A PAC CONTRIBUTION TAX DEDUCTIBLE?
Contributions to the PAC are tax deductible.
WHAT CANDIDATES ARE SUPPORTED BY OUR PAC?
Our PAC is nonpartisan and supports both Democrats and Republicans. Your dollars help support candidates on both sides of the aisle who are sensitive to the issues that impact our members and industry. To receive contributions from our PAC, candidates must demonstrate: sound judgment on our issues, a supportive voting record and viability as a candidate.
WHO SHOULD I CONTACT IF I HAVE SPECIFIC QUESTIONS?
WHAT BENEFITS DO I GET FOR CONTRIBUTING?
Your participation enables the ILA to be a visible player in the political process and sends a
strong, collective message that contributors share the interests of their association or industry.
There is strength in numbers.