1. Chapter 8 Notes
We talked about one way that interest groups work through government…PAC’s & Super PAC’s—there is another way too
Interest Groups also use Lobbyists to influence politicians
What is a Lobbyist? Write some ideas down in your notes about what a lobbyist might be.
A lobbyist is someone hired by a business or an interest group to persuade legislators to support that business or cause
Lobbyists speak to members of Congress & their staffs, testify before congressional hearings to try & persuade laws that are created
Lobbyists get paid to win favor from politicians; sometimes LOTS of money! Most big time lobbyists work & live in D.C.
For example, oil companies send lobbyists to Washington to try to make life easier for oil companies
Lobbyists are supposed to operate under certain ethical rules

2. We are going to watch a short video that tells the story of one lobbyist in Washington in the late 1990’s.
Please answer the questions on the worksheet as you watch the video. Be prepared to discuss any of your answers.
Now, answer the following questions on the back of your sheet:
After watching the video…
What is the difference between a Super PAC and a lobbyist; in terms of how they influence politics?
Who do you think influence/corrupt politicians more, Super PAC’s or lobbyists? MAKE SURE YOU EXPLAIN YOUR CHOICE IN A PARAGRAPH.