Frequently Asked Questions About RPAC (REALTORS® Political Action Committee)

1. What is RPAC?

It's the REALTORS® Political Action Committee. Its goals are to organize the members of our organization as a concerned, involved political constituency. RPAC raises voluntary funds from members for use in making contributions to political candidates at the federal, state and local levels.

2. I already contribute to the candidates or party of my choice. Why do I need RPAC?

You should contribute to the candidates and party of your choice. However, RPAC provides you the additional opportunity to have a statewide and nationwide impact on the election of candidates who will shape legislation that affects our lives and the way real estate professionals conduct business all across the country. It is a collective voice of our industry.

3. Why does RPAC need me?

RPAC means working together. Last year, less than 46 percent of Ohio REALTORS® contributed to RPAC. That means more than 50 percent of our members counting on others to carry the whole load.  If every member does his or her share, REALTORS® everywhere will benefit.

4. Who decides which candidates RPAC supports?

RPAC Trustees make this determination. At the state level there are twelve Trustees appointed by the OAR President. The Trustees count on the input from Local Boards to help them make the contribution decision.

5. Does RPAC support democrats or republicans?

Both. RPAC is nonpartisan in its selection of candidates. The voting record, the candidates agenda and quality of each candidate, plus the recommendations of Local Boards, determine who gets RPAC support.

6. Is RPAC legal?

Yes! RPAC has been in existence since 1969, and is in full compliance with the law. PACs have been authorized by congressional acts and state election laws. You can't get much more legal than that.

7. Are RPAC records confidential?

There's nothing "secret" about RPAC. Accurate records are kept and reports are filed of all contributions five times a year at the Secretary of State's Office. Those reports become part of public record.

8. Does RPAC "buy" votes?

Buy votes? No! Make no mistake, most candidates and officeholders are honorable people whose votes are not for sale. RPAC contributes to candidates who are knowledgeable and fair, and who will at least listen to the REALTOR'S point of view.

To view the 2006 RPAC Report which lists how many funds were raised in '06 and which legislators received funds, CLICK HERE.