Although the defense sector contributes far less money to politicians than many other sectors, it is one of the most powerful in politics.The sector includes defense aerospace, defense electronics and other miscellaneous defense companies.

Individuals and political action committees associated with the defense sector contributed more than $27 million to political candidates and committees during the 2012 campaign cycle, with far more going to Republicans than Democrats: $16.4 million versus $11 million. [Read more Background]