Individual campaign donations are politically significant but poorly understood. This study uses survey data from over 2,800 donors alongside FEC records and roll call data to analyze donation motivations.

Key findings reveal:

* 📊 Policy Alignment Matters

Donors' ideological sophistication influences their choice of candidates based on policy positions, even among those sharing the same party affiliation.

* 💼 Professional Backgrounds Influence Giving

Committee membership matching a donor's profession has a notable impact on donation likelihood, suggesting professional networking plays a role beyond access.

* ⚖️ Beyond Ideology & Power Dynamics

While policy agreement and professional connections affect donations, the size of contributions appears determined by factors outside the legislator's control.

These insights challenge common assumptions about donor motivations and provide nuanced understanding into individual financial support for political campaigns.