1. INTEREST GROUPS An interest group is a group of like-minded individuals who encourage or prevent changes in public policy without trying to be elected.

2. INTEREST GROUPS Functions: 1.Stimulate interest in public policy. 2.Represent members based on interests / attitudes (not geography – like elected officials). 3. Provide information to the government (politicians). 4. Act as a vehicle for political participation. 5. Act as a check and balance for politics. 6. Competitively balance each other. DO NOT NOMINATE CANDIDATES

3. INTEREST GROUPS Criticisms: 1.Interest groups push their own agenda, which is not always in the best interest of most Americans. 2. Better organized + better funded = more influence. 3. Some groups use bribes, threats, etc. to accomplish their goals.

5. INTEREST GROUPS What are interest groups you’ve heard of? http://www.vancouver.wsu.edu/fac/kfountain/alpha.html