The PACs can be used to raise funds and pay for “some political activity from an account separate from their campaigns,” according to Roll Call:

The senators use the funds to pay for political expenses, and give contributions to other senators and candidates. Members often hope their contributions to other members will improve their chances for a leadership position. Because this type of account is separate from the senator’s campaign committee, its activity is often not regularly covered by news organizations nor known to the general public in the senator’s home state.

They include Sen. Mazie Hirono, who had $121,000 in receipts through June 30 and $26,819 in cash on hand.

The article does not list U.S. Sen. Brian Schatz, who was appointed to his seat a year ago. A campaign spokesman said Schatz had not yet set one up.

Photo: The Hill. (Ron Cogswell)

—Chad Blair