An image from a "fiscal cliff" ad released by Crossroads Grassroots Policy Strategies in 2012. AP hide caption
campaign finance
Ken Cuccinelli, the Republican nominee for Virginia governor, speaks with the news media after casting his ballot in Nokesville, Va., on Tuesday. Cliff Owen/AP hide caption
Supporters look on as President Obama speaks about the choice facing women in the upcoming election at an October 2012 campaign event. Carolyn Kaster/AP hide caption
The Supreme Court denied the petition of businessmen who say the 2010 Citizens United ruling makes it legal for corporations to contribute directly to candidates. The court building is seen here during renovations in December. Alex Wong/Getty Images hide caption
A supporter of President Barack Obama raises his arms as it is announced that Obama was re-elected during an election night watch party in Chicago. Jerome Delay/AP hide caption
With Millions Spent, GOP 'Investors' Saw Little Return Election Night
Karl Rove, former adviser to President George W. Bush, speaks last year in Corpus Christi, Texas. Rove is the chief fundraiser for the biggest outside spender this election season: the twin groups American Crossroads and Crossroads GPS. Michael Zamora/AP hide caption
Outside Groups Spend Big On Elections, But Don't Have Much To Show For It
Rep. Michele Bachmann, R-Minn., speaks during the Family Research Council Action Values Voter Summit last month in Washington. Mandel Ngan/AFP/Getty Images hide caption
'Social Welfare' Organizations Play Big Role In Presidential Politics
Republican presidential contender Mitt Romney at a campaign event on Wednesday in St. Petersburg, Fla. Edward Linsmier/Getty Images hide caption
John Edwards as he entered the Federal Courthouse in Greensboro, N.C., this morning. Sara D. Davis/Getty Images hide caption
Invitations to fundraisers for members of Congress frequently mention which committees they serve on. Sunlight Foundation/Political Party Time hide caption