Understanding Political Interest Groups

What is the main role of political interest groups?

• To get their party members elected

• To run for office

• To influence government and public policy

• To organize political meetings

What is public policy?

• A plan of action to solve a problem for the public

• A political party's agenda

• A law passed by the government

• A campaign strategy

Why do millions of Americans join interest groups?

• To run for political office

• Because of strength in numbers

• To attend political meetings

• For social networking

What is an example of a labor union's goal?

• To reduce taxes

• To improve public transportation

• To get a party member elected

• To fight for better wages and working conditions

What is the difference between a political party and an interest group?

• Political parties do not influence public policy

• Interest groups do not support candidates

• Political parties are not involved in elections

• Interest groups focus on getting laws passed

What method do interest groups use to influence the government?

• Organizing protests

• Running for office

• Voting

• Lobbying

What do lobbyists do?

• Organize political campaigns

• Run for political office

• Vote in elections

• Approach government officials to influence them

Which of the following best describes the purpose of public interest groups?

• To exclusively support political candidates

• To generate profit for its members

• To influence public policy for the common good

• To provide entertainment to the public

How can citizens participate in their government beyond just voting?

• By only discussing politics on social media

• By volunteering for community service

• By attending town hall meetings

• By exclusively watching the news

What is the role of litigation in the activities of interest groups?

• To donate money to political parties

• To organize political campaigns

• To bring lawsuits to change laws or policies

• To vote in elections