The Campaign Assistance Fund (CAF) is the Boilermakers’ federal political action committee (PAC). Because federal law doesn’t allow unions to give candidates money from dues or general funds, CAF is how Boilermakers voluntarily support pro-worker candidates for federal office. CAF is funded by voluntary contributions from members, retirees and their families, never from dues.
In federal elections, business PACs and wealthy individuals outspend labor by more than 20 to one. Many candidates also spend from their own personal wealth and benefit from corporate spending. CAF helps level the playing field by pooling small voluntary contributions from members. Even a few dollars a month helps ensure working people have a voice in Congress on issues like jobs, pensions, energy policy and worker protections.
CAF contributions are used to support selected federal candidates and when appropriate, state political parties. The LEAP Executive Committee makes decisions based on recommendations from the Government Affairs department, who looks at factors such as a candidate’s voting record and position on worker issues, chances of winning and other factors.
All CAF donations are voluntary. Members can choose to give more, less, or not at all without pressure or consequence. Contributions are used for political purposes and giving is not required by local lodges. Contributions are not tax-deductible.
Many locals use a voluntary political checkoff plan. This works like dues checkoff where members authorize a small payroll deduction that goes directly to CAF. Check-off works because small amounts add up over time. Once enrolled, members typically stay involved, and that creates steady support for worker-friendly candidates. Members must always sign an authorization form before any deductions begin.
CAF is effective and gives Boilermakers a collective political voice. Small voluntary contributions help support candidates who stand with working people and ensure our issues are heard where decisions are made.
