1. Interest Groups
CP Government Chapter 9

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

4. 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

5. 4 Major Types of Interest Groups
BUSINESS
LABOR
AGRICULTURAL
PROFESSIONAL

6. 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

7. 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

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

9. Professional People with advanced degrees Fastest growing
EX-AMA ABA NEA

10. 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.

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

12. 4 Goals of Interest Groups
1.  Influence the public opinion
2.  Influence elections
3. Influence politicians
4. Get whole party to see your
viewpoint

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

14. How do they do it? Propaganda/Media
Card stacking
Name calling
Bandwagon
Glittering generalities
Symbols
Testimonials

16. 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