unit # 6 taking part in government chapter #17 interest groups, public opinion and mass media lesson...
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UNIT # 6
Taking Part in Government
CHAPTER #17
Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media
LESSON #1-2
Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy
-These are groups that share common ideas and attempt to sway government policy
-They apply pressure to the government by:1. Contributing to Campaigns2. Giving Testimony at Hearings3. Advertising4. Writing Letters to Lawmakers5. Staging Demonstrations
-There are three types of interest groups:1. Economic—who work to benefit
business, labor and farms2. Special Cause—who work for a particular
issue such as the environment, women’s rights or gun controlPage 1
Interest GroupsUNIT # 6
Taking Part in Government
CHAPTER #17
Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media
LESSON #1-2
Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy
3. Public—work for all Americans, at issues like political fairness or public health
Page 2
(continued)UNIT # 6
Taking Part in Government
CHAPTER #17
Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media
LESSON #1-2
Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy
Lobbying-Lobbyists make direct contact with members
of Congress and their staffs for the purpose of influencing laws or regulations
-Lobbyists get their name from the days when they would wait in lobbies of the Capital to talk to congressmen
-Lobbyists have their own business or are hired by interest groups
-They are often (however not always) former congressmen or members of the executive branch
-They have experience with, and friends in, Congress that helps them be resourceful and persuasive
-There are about 15,000 lobbyist in D.C.-Lobbying also occurs in state capitals
Page 3
(continued)UNIT # 6
Taking Part in Government
CHAPTER #17
Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media
LESSON #1-2
Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy
-Lobbyist often meet with congressmen to explain their side of the story
-Often if an interest group made a contribution to a politician’s campaign, their lobbyist are ensured a meeting
-Lobbyist help interest groups apply pressure to the government
Lobbying Methods
-Lobbyist can even be involved in the bill writing process
-All lobbyist groups must register with the federal government
-Limits have been placed on the type and amount of gifts congressmen can accept
Page 4
(continued)UNIT # 6
Taking Part in Government
CHAPTER #17
Interest Groups, Public Opinion and Mass Media
LESSON #1-2
Interest Groups and Influencing Public Policy