Question

question 10 of 10
what is the primary difference between hard money and soft money?
a. hard money is subject to very few limits, while soft money is tightly regulated.
b. hard money is given directly to political campaigns, while soft money is given to political parties for voter education.
c. hard money is drawn from candidates personal funds, while soft money comes from a combination of sources.
d. hard money is given to super pacs, while soft money is given directly to candidates.

Explanation:

Hard money refers to campaign contributions that are given directly to a political candidate or campaign and are subject to strict regulations, including limits on the amount that can be donated. Soft money, on the other hand, is given to political parties for activities such as voter registration and issue advocacy (often framed as "voter education") and was historically less regulated (before some reforms). Option B correctly captures this distinction. Option A is incorrect as hard money is tightly regulated and soft money (historically) had fewer limits. Option C is wrong because hard money can come from various donors (not just candidates' personal funds) and soft money also has multiple sources. Option D has it backwards; super PACs often receive money (but hard money to candidates is direct, soft money to parties).

Answer:

B. Hard money is given directly to political campaigns, while soft money is given to political parties for "voter education."