Distraction: All decisions are made at the local level. If you want a voice, you have to join the local PAC committee — and that means donating to get a seat at the table.

Fact: National RPAC sets binding rules on federal donations and PAC operations. Rules can be changed. Forcing REALTORS® to fund their own disenfranchisement breaks the rules and our Code of Ethics.

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The Narrative We’re Told

When REALTORS® raise concerns about RPAC endorsements or donations, one of the most common deflections is: “All the decisions are made locally. If you want a voice, you need to join your local PAC committee.”

On the surface, that sounds empowering. But in reality, it creates a closed loop: access requires donating, and donating means buying into a system that may already be funding candidates who oppose diversity, inclusion, or even basic property rights.

The Truth Behind the Curtain

Local PACs don’t operate in a vacuum. National RPAC sets strict rules that govern every state and local PAC.

• Federal contribution limits and disbursement rules flow down from the national trustees.
• Endorsement processes, like the “friendly incumbent” policy, come from the top.
• Local associations are required to follow these frameworks to remain in compliance.

So while locals may administer the process, the rules of the game are written nationally. And rules can be changed.

Why This Matters for REALTORS®

The REALTOR® Code of Ethics — especially Article 10 — commits us to a higher standard than “just politics.” We pledge to protect clients and communities against discrimination and disenfranchisement.

Yet, when participation requires donating to a PAC that may endorse anti-diversity candidates, REALTORS® are effectively being told: “Pay to play, even if your money goes to undermine your own rights.”

That’s not empowerment. That’s forced disenfranchisement.

What Needs to Change

1. Transparency: National RPAC must acknowledge its role in setting the guardrails for local decisions.
2. Access Without Payment: REALTOR® voices should never be conditioned on donations.
3. Code of Ethics Alignment: Endorsements and funding must reflect Article 10 — our promise of fairness, equality, and professionalism.

The Bottom Line

This isn’t about left vs. right, or Republican vs. Democrat. It’s about REALTORS® being required to bankroll systems that can harm their own members. If National RPAC sets the rules, it’s on National RPAC to change them.

We can protect property rights without forcing REALTORS® to fund their own disenfranchisement.