1. AP GOV Review: Video #18, The Activities Of Special Interest Groups
Everything You Need To Know About The Activities Of Special Interest Groups To Succeed In AP Government

2. 4 Major Activities Of Interest Groups
Lobbying
Electioneering
Litigation
Go Public

3. #1 Lobbying What is it? The process of trying to persuade politicians
They are often hired by interest groups to represent their cause/issue
2 types of lobbyists
Paid employee of an organization, union, or corporation
Lobbyists hired on a temporary basis
Former members of Congress sometimes become lobbyists after their political careers
How can lobbyists can help members of Congress?
Provide key information on certain public policies
Propose ways to help pass legislation
How effective is lobbying?
Difficult to tell
Lobbyists clearly lobby those that are receptive to their ideas

4. #2 Electioneering What is it?
Providing financial assistance (donating to a campaign) and members to vote for candidates
Often, interest groups provide assistance through Political Action Committees (PACs)
More in video #20
How else can interest groups electioneer?
Endorse candidates, provide members for campaigning, and help influence party platforms

5. #3 Litigation
What is it?
Using the court system to influence public policy
Examples of litigation?
Civil Rights groups of the 1950s
Brown v. Board of Education
***Amicus Curiae*** briefs
“Friends of the court” briefs
Groups file depositions to the court, describing how a ruling may affect them
Class Action Lawsuits:
Combines people in a similar situation under one law suit

6. #4 Going Public What is it? Appealing to the public to assist a cause
Public image is very important in going public
Examples of going public?
TV, newspaper, and magazine ads
How effective is going public?
Very difficult to tell, but it is a commonly used tactic

7. Test Tips Multiple-Choice: Amicus Curiae Litigation - Brown v. Board
Purpose of Special Interest Groups
Free Response:
Ways interest groups influence government decision making - “Iron Triangles” and Amicus Curiae briefs

8. See You Back Here For Video #19 - The Effects Of Interest Groups On The Political Process
Thanks for watching!
Best of luck in May