Tracking the money: Where $5.2 million came from

ABM represents a relatively new breed of outside organizations that can spend money to support or oppose candidates directly, or air ads that take sides on specific policy issues. These organizations can raise unlimited amounts of money from individuals, unions, other political action committees and non-profits - unlike candidates, who are subject to fundraising limits. And they can spend money more flexibly than political parties. The only thing ABM can't do is give money to political candidates or coordinate directly with their campaigns.