SMITH, BRIAN

This measures what share of itemized contributions came from PACs and party committees versus individual citizens. Higher PAC concentration means organized interests have more access — and more leverage.

Independent expenditures (Super PAC spending) don't appear in a candidate's own fundraising, but are still spent to elect them. Super PACs disclose their donors — but that money often originates from 501(c)(4) ‘dark money’ nonprofits that never have to reveal their original funders, so the true source can stay hidden. A high share here means more of the campaign is bankrolled by outside groups, with real potential for undisclosed money behind them. Confirmed dark-money vectors are flagged separately below.

A conflict of interest exists when a lawmaker sits on a committee that regulates the same industry that funds their campaign. When the regulator and the regulated are financially connected, voters should ask: whose interests come first?

The STOCK Act requires Congress members to report personal stock trades within 45 days — because lawmakers who trade in industries they regulate risk profiting from insider knowledge. Late filings are a $200 fine most simply pay, meaning there's little deterrent.

This shows recent voting participation and legislation introduced. Members who skip votes or introduce few bills may be less engaged with their legislative duties — or may be spending more time fundraising.