Quiz #3: Interest Groups, PACs & the Media

What is the main role of the media as a linkage institution?

• To gain revenue from advertising and sponsorhips

• To provide a platform for citizens to express their opinions

• To connect citizens with their elected representatives

• To serve as a check on the power of government officials

How does the media act as a scorekeeper in covering politics and elections?

• By providing in-depth coverage of the candidates' qualifications and policy positions

• By providing analysis of the candidates' performances in debates and other public appearances

• By reporting on the results of polls and other indicators of public opinion

• By providing coverage of the campaigns' fundraising and spending

What is the main goal of an interest group?

• To influence government policy on a specific issue or set of issues

• To elect candidates who support their goals

• To mobilize citizens to take action on specific issues

• To provide a platform for citizens to express their opinions

How do interest groups differ most from political action committees (PACs)?

• Interest groups focus on donating to political parties, while PACs focus on lobbying to political campaigns

• Interest groups are typically non-partisan, while PACs are associated with a particular political party

• Interest groups are typically focused on a specific issue or set of issues, while PACs can support candidates from different parties with different policy positions

• Interest groups are typically made up of citizens, while PACs are typically funded by corporations or other organizations.

How does the media's role as a gatekeeper impact public opinion and the government's policy agenda?

• By providing balanced coverage of all issues

• By providing in-depth coverage of all issues

• By choosing what to cover and how to frame it

• By providing superficial coverage of all issues