Interest Groups
One of my favorite topics discussed in my AP Gov Class, was discussing Interest Groups and how they shape policy. Interest Groups can shape public policy through the application of four basic strategies, such as: Lobbying, electioneering, litigation, and by gaining public interest.
The strategy of Lobbying requires that Lobbyist seek to influence politicians on issues. By doing this, they also help members of Congress by acting as an important source of information. Since members have to concern themselves with many areas in policy, Lobbyist focus on one area to act as a specialized expertise. Another function of lobbyist, is that the can help members of congress come up with political strategies to help pass their legislation.
The strategy of Electioneering is to be directly involved in the election process. They can do this by funding campaigns, getting some of their members to work for candidates, or they can form PACs. These PACs raised money for the candidate and their campaign to increase chances of being elected. Interest want to fund the campaign of candidates they believe will support their preferred policies.
The strategy of Litigation sort of a back up plan, in case interest groups fail to influence members of congress. They can then try to influence the court's final decision by filing an amicus curiae brief, which are written arguments in support of one side of a case. Here, interest groups can express how the decision of the court will affect the welfare of the people and defend their case.
The strategy of gaining public interest is to inform the public on the issue, and persuade the people to favor their side. This is because public opinion is bound to make its way into policy quicker. Interest groups make a good public image for themselves, as well as use marketing strategies to sell their policy.
The strategy of Lobbying requires that Lobbyist seek to influence politicians on issues. By doing this, they also help members of Congress by acting as an important source of information. Since members have to concern themselves with many areas in policy, Lobbyist focus on one area to act as a specialized expertise. Another function of lobbyist, is that the can help members of congress come up with political strategies to help pass their legislation.
The strategy of Electioneering is to be directly involved in the election process. They can do this by funding campaigns, getting some of their members to work for candidates, or they can form PACs. These PACs raised money for the candidate and their campaign to increase chances of being elected. Interest want to fund the campaign of candidates they believe will support their preferred policies.
The strategy of Litigation sort of a back up plan, in case interest groups fail to influence members of congress. They can then try to influence the court's final decision by filing an amicus curiae brief, which are written arguments in support of one side of a case. Here, interest groups can express how the decision of the court will affect the welfare of the people and defend their case.
The strategy of gaining public interest is to inform the public on the issue, and persuade the people to favor their side. This is because public opinion is bound to make its way into policy quicker. Interest groups make a good public image for themselves, as well as use marketing strategies to sell their policy.
I like it. Its informative. Thank you for the review of this subject.
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