Critical Thinking Journals Write down 1 law you would like changed or a new law you would like to be made and explain why you would like for it to happen

Influencing Congress 7.3 Notes

Influences on Lawmakers Personal Beliefs Beliefs on his/her constituents Expert opinions Political parties Lobbyists Other Congressman

Influence of Voters What if there is a conflict between what should be done and what the people of his/her district want? Most people say, “do what the people want.” Most congressman do this Most voters do not know how congressman vote During Elections – voting record is used against them

Learning what the voters want Congressman makes dozens of trips home per year Mail Questionnaires

Political Parties Party voting Importance of parties Stronger in house than in senate Strong on economy and social welfare Weak on foreign policy and local projects (dams and water) Importance of parties Likely to share beliefs Not informed on all issues Party pressure

Other Influences President Interest Groups (Lobbyist) The Spotlight = Public opinion = Bully Pulpit Interest Groups (Lobbyist) Money Voting sway Information Political Action Groups (PAGs) Funded by corporations, labor unions, etc.