ATPE Political
Action Committee
Donate to PAC
What is ATPE-PAC?
ATPE-PAC is ATPE’s Political Action Committee fund, a political action committee (PAC) that
accepts voluntary donations from ATPE members and makes financial contributions on a non-partisan
basis to officeholders/candidates who support public education and ATPE’s philosophies.
Participation in ATPE-PAC is voluntary. Members can donate any amount or nothing at all without
affecting their membership status, rights or benefits.
Why should I donate to ATPE-PAC?
Your PAC helps support your profession, your association’s principles and public education as
an institution. ATPE advocates a comprehensive legislative program that includes enhanced benefits
for educators and students, but we need the support of legislators to accomplish our priorities.
ATPE-PAC is our vehicle for doing that, but we face a challenge. Without a substantial financial
base, officeholders who support public education and ATPE's professional non-union philosophy are
unable to compete with candidates backed by the labor unions or private special interests. That's
why your financial donation is critical. It helps ATPE gain the high profile and strength needed
to compete in the political arena.
Still not convinced, click here for more
good reasons.
How does ATPE-PAC determine the distribution of funds?
Contributions to officeholders/candidates are based on one or more of the following: input
from ATPE local unit and region presidents; surveys and voting records; officeholder/candidate
support of public education and ATPE’s professional non-union philosophy; and the opportunity for
increased recognition of ATPE.
Does ATPE endorse officeholders/candidates?
No. ATPE notifies ATPE-PAC recipients that contributions do not constitute a public endorsement by
ATPE. ATPE believes each member should support the officeholder/candidate of his choice.
Do PAC contributions to officeholders/candidates buy votes?
Definitely not, but they do buy access, which is just as important. PACs support
officeholders/candidates who share the contributing organization’s philosophies and values. In
turn, officeholders/candidates give the organization a chance to present its issues to them.
Ultimately, however, officeholders will vote according to what is in the best interest of their
constituents.
Why does ATPE need to raise money for ATPE-PAC if the membership application states that 12
percent of membership dues dollars is used for lobbying?
State and federal law prohibits ATPE from donating dues dollars to candidates or officeholders.
This amount is spent on the operational expenses of advocating for ATPE’s philosophy and policies
(e.g. mailings, travel and salaries). Your dues dollars are not given to candidates or
officeholders, and that is why your donations to ATPE-PAC are so important.
How can ATPE members donate to ATPE-PAC?
Members can donate any time via cash, check or
credit card. Other
donation opportunities are available on ATPE’s membership applications, various publications, and
at state events such as Leader U and the annual state convention. ATPE encourages local leaders to
collect donations at local unit and region meetings or organize fund-raisers.
Does ATPE have to know who donates every dollar?
Yes, per
Texas Ethics Commission campaign finance laws.
Are donations tax deductible?
No, per federal income tax rules.
How does ATPE-PAC honor contributors?
Donors are honored through various
awards, in ATPE publications and
at ATPE events.
Make your donation now! |
