Interest Groups CP Government Chapter 9

What/Who are they?  Definition-Private groups that try to influence politicians and public policy.  Most interest groups form for economic reasons  Some are geographically located  They can share members

3 differences between Political Parties and IG’s 1. Parties nominate people for office— IG’s try to influence politicians once they are elected 2. Parties need to have wide appeal to many issues—IG’s focus on a single issue. 3. Politicians are accountable to the public—IG’s are not.

What’s Good What’s Bad  Stimulate interest  Widespread  Help watchdog  Focus on a single side of an issue  Cannot tell size  Can be too powerful  Law breakers  Interests do not benefit all

4 Major Types of Interest Groups  BUSINESS  LABOR  AGRICULTURAL  PROFESSIONAL

Business  Represent a particular company (IBM) or industry (the steel industry)  Lobby the government to get policies to favor their interests  Ex—NAM, Chamber of Commerce  Can start their own interest group called a trade association Ex-Banks, trucking co’s

Labor  For blue and white collar workers. Mostly unions that try to help improve working conditions or wages  Have lost membership and power over the years  Ex-AFL-CIO, UMW

Agriculture  Represent farmers and related industries.  The most influential IG, even though about 2% of the population farms.  Ex-National Grange AFBF, ADFA

Professional PPeople with advanced degrees FFastest growing  EX-AMA ABA NEA

Public Interest Groups  Their causes will generally help many people.  Ex-Clean air will help a city but will also help the people around the city.

MINOR GROUPS PPromote causes—ACLU, League of Women’s Voters PPromote welfare of certain groups— NAACP, AARP RReligious groups—each religion will try to influence the government on their issues EEx=Gun control, prohibition, voting, women’s rights, veterans, wildlife

4 Goals of Interest Groups 1. Influence the public opinion 2. Influence elections 3. Influence politicians 4. Get whole party to see your viewpoint

How do they do it? Lobbyists 1. Former politicians to persuade 2. Honest/credible 3. Registered 4. Research/write laws for Congress 5. Money/PAC’s

How do they do it? Propaganda/Media Card stacking Name calling Bandwagon GGlittering generalities SSymbols TTestimonials

How do they do it? 1. Get politicians elected that already hold your viewpoint 2. Use grass roots propaganda/voters 3. Publicize the politician -Good /Bad -Grades/Report Card -Voting History 4. Influence party leaders/entire party