While campaign finance is not the only factor in electoral outcomes, successful fundraising can provide a candidate with advantages during a campaign. Fundraising can also indicate party momentum.

Campaign finance requirements govern how much money candidates may receive from individuals and organizations, how often they must report those contributions, and how much individuals, organizations, and political entities may contribute to campaigns.

A bill is making its way through the 134th Ohio General Assembly this year that would have major implications on campaign finance law. House Bill 13 seeks to regulate the disclosure of private money donated to 501c4 organizations — often referred to as “dark money” groups.