CULAC topping the charts in election cycle

WASHINGTON-CULAC is outpacing many of its rivals in fundraising and contributions, according to recent data from the Federal Election Commission. However, such furious early spending may leave their coffers dry as the end of the election cycle nears. CULAC, the official political action committee (PAC) of CUNA, was ranked fourth among other trade/member/health PACs in disbursements with a total of approximately $1.84 million as of March 31, 2001. The closest banker group at this point is the Independent Community Bankers of America (ICBA) in the number 37 spot. Among all PACs, CULAC ranked 21st in disbursements. CULAC also sits in sixth place in this category for money received ($1.8 million in the first 15 months of the election cycle), just behind such recognizable groups as the National Rifle Association and the American Medical Association. When compared to all PACs, CULAC ranked 28th by receipts. Again, ICBA holds 35th place among trade/member/health PACs. CULAC did not rank among the top 50 for cash on hand, possibly meaning that other groups are waiting a bit longer to put out their funds. ICBA ranked 35 for cash on hand among other trade groups, but did not make the top 50 overall. According to the Center for Responsive Politics, CULAC donations have leaned slightly right with 57% of funds going to Republicans and 43% to Democrats.