Interest Groups. Introduction What is an interest group? People who share common goals and organize to influence government Interest groups focus.

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Interest Groups

Introduction

What is an interest group? People who share common goals and organize to influence

government

Interest groups focus on specific problems unlike political parties

Madison warned against “factions” in Federalist No. 10 Are they adverse to the rights of other citizens or a way for

citizens to interact with the government?

Why do people join interest groups? People join interest groups to promote their economic self-

interests Due to their values, beliefs, attitudes

Types of Interest Groups

Business Related National Association of Manufacturers

Agricultural Groups National Farmer’s Union

Professional Associations American Bar Association American Medical Association

Environmental Groups

Public Interest Groups

Foreign Interest Groups

The Work of Lobbyists

Many interest groups try to contact lawmakers to influence policy – called Lobbying

They provide useful info to policymakers through personal contact and through testifying

Lobbyists help draft bills

Interest Groups Seek Support

Use mass media television, newspapers, magazines and radio to create support for their views

Members write letters to Congress to demonstrate public support for a policy

Limitations include competition w/ other interest groups and diversity within each interest group

Rise of Political Action Committees

What is a Political Action Committee?

Organizations specifically designed to collect $ and provide financial support for a political candidate.

PACS began when federal legislation prevented individuals from donating very much

Federal Regulations for PACs

Register w/ gov’t, donate to five candidates, raise money from 50 contributors

No limits for Super PACs

Types and Strategies of PACs

Types: Affiliated PACs: tied to corporations, labor unions, health

organizations Nonconnected PACs: not tied to any interest groups,

organize just for elections

Strategies for Influence: Promise campaign support for candidates who favor their

policies Give money to policymakers in the hope they might gain

access

Super PACs and Dirty Ads

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=43aaoFjI9S8