Government and Elections Influences on Government and Elections Chapter 11

Influences on Government and Elections Public Opinion - “What people think about public officials.” Elected officials pay attention to public opinion because they want the support of the people so they will continue to be re-elected. Voters – What do the voters say? Interest Groups - Groups that try to form around specific issues. They try to influence leaders and get laws passed. Mass Media - It plays a major role in influencing the government. They have access to every American. Internet has become a powerful tool that candidates use in order to get elected and get their message to the public.

How does the Media effect government and elections? It effects public opinion. Depending on how the media presents a topic can determine whether it gets support from the public. It effects elections. The way that candidates appear on T.V. effects the way the public views candidates. It is a watchdog. The media makes corruption known to the public and helps keep public officials honest.