Super PACs have been defended by supporters as an embodiment of the First Amendment.  Detractors claim that they are a perversion of the freedom of speech, that they allot individuals and corporations undue influence.  Cost-benefit analysis of Super PACs must reflect the distribution of public opinion between the two camps.  A recent Washington Post / ABC poll showed that 69% of registered voters thinkSuper PACs should be illegal, with 52% responding “illegal, strongly.”  With 90 donors constituting 78.6% of donations to Super PACs in the 2012 cycle, it is unsurprising that the public feels Super PACs allow the wealthy to exercise undue influence (Drutman).  Super PACs are a detriment to popular political efficacy (Blake). 



While Super PACs are decidedly unpopular, few see campaign finance as the preeminent issue of this election (Blake).  This explains why all major candidates and both political parties condone Super PACs.  Currently, the pragmatist beats out the idealist; while politicians may be against Super PACs on principle, they do not turn away support from said groups. 

Based on initial figures, the cost-benefit reality for corporations differs from that of politicians.  In acknowledgement of popular opinion, many corporations are loath to donate to Super PACs, fearing negative PR (Jaffe).  While voters may weight other issues above campaign finance, consumers have the luxury to demand utility and morality.  It would seem that Smithies capitalism has prevailed, ensuring an open election; however, corporations have turned to methods that do not require disclosure.  Instead of donating to Super PACs, corporations fund 501(c)(4)s, which do not disclose the identities of supporters (Jaffe). 



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Although the public is decidedly opposed to Super PACs, few voters prioritize campaign finance reform.  Accordingly, politicians, who may oppose these groups, still accept aid from them.  Corporations have a differing reality; they have avoided the negative PR of publicized donations to Super PACs, instead electing to donate to secretive 501(c)(4)s.