Money plays a big role in the elections. Each month, political pundits track fundraising and spending by the political parties, the campaigns and the political action committees, or PACs.
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A lot of those dollars are coming from some big-money names. But who are they?
So far, one of the pro-Mitt Romney PACs, Restore Our Future, has made inroads with many of the nation's billionaires, while one of the pro-President Barack Obama PACs, Priorities USA Action, has enjoyed a lot of support from Hollywood celebrities.
With the election in November, here's a look at some of the biggest donors so far.
Morgan Freeman
In a career spanning five decades, Morgan Freeman has appeared in nearly 100 film and television projects, but it wasn't until 2005 that he won an Oscar for "Million Dollar Baby." It turns out that was a fitting title. In July, Freeman reportedly gave $1 million to the pro-Obama super PAC, Priorities USA Action.
By some estimates, Freeman has a net worth of about $90 million.
Bill Maher
Comedian Bill Maher cracks a lot of political jokes on his HBO show, "Real Time with Bill Maher." But this year, the funnyman decided to put his money where his mouth is by giving $1 million to a pro-Obama super PAC, Priorities USA Action.
Maher is reportedly worth an estimated $23 million. He described his $1 million political contribution as "the wisest investment I think I could make."
Chelsea Handler
As an author, comedian, television host and producer, Chelsea Handler has more jobs than the average American. Apparently, she's found enough spare dough to kick in $100,000 to the pro-Obama super PAC, Priorities USA Action.
In 2010, Forbes estimated that Handler earned $19 million between her book sales, comedy tour and television work. More recently, Handler reportedly signed a $25 million deal with E! Entertainment Television to continue hosting "Chelsea Lately."
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