Political Engagement

Engaging with Government

As a responsible corporate citizen, Caterpillar participates in the public policy process, advocating for a broad range of issues that advance our strategy and purpose while providing value to shareholders and other stakeholders.

2022 Caterpillar Lobbying Report:
The Purpose of Engagement

The report, which the company plans to issue annually, provides greater transparency and disclosure of the company’s U.S. political engagement strategy, including a description of the governance oversight and management of these activities. Caterpillar’s shareholders have demonstrated interest in more transparency and a better understanding of our political engagement strategy. We value their input and diverse perspectives and are implementing a number of key changes based on shareholder feedback. Our Values in Action, governing laws and strategy for profitable growth continue to guide how we act and manage, whom we engage with, and our areas of focus.

The report also outlines climate lobbying efforts focused on supporting Caterpillar’s customers during the energy transition, Caterpillar’s relationships with U.S. trade and industry associations, employee engagement in advocacy initiatives, and Caterpillar Inc. Political Action Committee governance. 
 

Current U.S. Disclosures

Our commitment to transparency and disclosure in our advocacy activities has long been recognized. As part of that commitment, numerous voluntary disclosures and links to filings related to our political engagements are below. When permitted by law, Caterpillar may make corporate political contributions in the United States that align with Caterpillar’s business interests. We may support political committees, political parties, ballot measure committees, associations, and other political organizations, including those operating under section 527 of the Internal Revenue Code. All such corporate political contributions are reported biannually. Caterpillar does not make independent expenditures on behalf of or in opposition to federal, state or local candidates and does not contribute to presidential campaigns or Super PACs. Additionally, we have changed the reporting threshold for U.S. trade and industry association contributions. In previous years, Caterpillar reported membership contributions of $50,000 or more annually. For 2023 and going forward, we will report all U.S. trade and industry association memberships biannually. You can find this information – and the percentage of annual membership dues used for federal lobbying as reported by each organization – in the Lobbying Report.

 

In the United States, in compliance with the Lobbying Disclosure Act, Caterpillar files a quarterly report that includes: 1) total federal lobbying expenditures, 2) the name of the specific piece of legislation or subject that was the topic of communication, 3) disclosure of Caterpillar individuals who qualify as lobbyists on behalf of Caterpillar and 4) identification of the legislative body or executive branch agency that was contacted. This report incorporates expenses associated with lobbying the federal government, including the portion of trade association dues associated with federal lobbying. The report can be found on the U.S. Senate Office of Public Records website or the U.S. House of Representatives Office of the Clerk website.

Caterpillar's Priority Issues

From infrastructure investments to workforce development to sustainability and more, we focus on policy areas that help our customers build a better, more sustainable world. The following priorities are driven by our enterprise strategy for profitable growth and where we see positive value in our engagement and the ability to make an impact.

 

Energy Transition

We’ve invested in improving machine efficiency, hydraulic hybrids, tethered electric and battery-powered machines. We’ve also made strategic acquisitions, including CarbonPoint Solutions, that develops carbon-capture technology for our customers. As a technology leader, we’ll invest at an even higher rate in autonomy, alternative fuels, connectivity, digital and electrification initiatives in the future.  

See our Sustainability Report
Underground battery electric mining truck parked
Underground battery electric mining truck parked

Infrastructure Investments

A more modern and reliable infrastructure system will enable U.S. manufacturers to better compete both domestically and globally. We support policies that provide funding for building, repairing and upgrading roads, bridges, rail, transit, port, waterway, airports and broadband internet infrastructure. Caterpillar also supports initiatives that focus on protecting and restoring the health of our natural infrastructure, like local ecosystems and helping communities grow more resilient and sustainable.

Equipment working on airport
Equipment working on airport

Skilled Workforce

Identifying, attracting and maintaining a diverse workforce that is skilled for today and the future is a top priority for our company. We support efforts and programs highlighting the need for talent and training and demonstrate competitive pay and rewarding career opportunities within the advanced manufacturing industry.

Two men working on equipment in service shop
Two men working on equipment in service shop

Competitiveness

Our company has long advocated for tax and trade policies that allow companies to compete freely. We work with lawmakers and regulators to implement pro-growth tax policies, ensuring our company remains competitive at home and abroad. We have advocated consistently for trade policies that lower tariffs and expand access. Our global customers use our equipment to build the infrastructure that supports access to water, electricity, roads, bridges, hospitals and schools across the globe.

Cargo ship transporting goods
Cargo ship transporting goods

Resources

of
Cat wheel loader on White House lawn

U.S. Footprint

Caterpillar has a presence around the world to support our global customers, but there’s no country where we employ more people than the United States. Learn more about Caterpillar's presence and engagement in each state.

View U.S. State Fact Sheets
Cat wheel loader on White House lawn
Cat wheel loader on White House lawn


Advocacy Outside the U.S.

Caterpillar's global reach and presence is unmatched in the industry.  Our government affairs teams in key global locations work to create a favorable legislative and policy environment to better serve our customers and increase shareholder value. While our advocacy strategies may differ depending on political systems and local laws, we are always guided by Our Values in Action, high ethical standards and our commitment to helping our customers build a better, more sustainable world.
 

In the European Union (EU), Caterpillar voluntarily participates in the Transparency Register operated by the European Parliament and the European Commission. Caterpillar discloses its engagement with policymakers in the EU regarding issues of interest to Caterpillar’s business and reports such information as its membership in trade associations and annual expenses associated with activities identified in the Register.

Visit EU Transparency Register
R1700 Battery Electric Underground Loader at work
R1700 Battery Electric Underground Loader at work

Related Stories