interest groups
what is an interest group
organization of people who have policy goals and try to influence policymakers to accomplish those goals
what is mass media referred to as
the 4th branch of the government
what is nomination
the naming of candidates who will run for office
where does all the government money come from
public financing
what is a political party
A group of people who seek to control the government through winning elections
how can interest groups affect policy making
Lobbying
Electioneering
Litigation
Gaining public support
what is mass media
linkage institution between the people and policy makers
what are the 5 ways candidates can be nominated
self announcement
caucus
party convention
direct primary
petition
what does PAC stand for
political action comittee
why are political parties necessary
Help compromise take place on important issues
Help display the true opinions of the american public
what do interest groups do
Bring lawsuits against governments
Make donations to candidates
Influence lawmakers ( lobbying )
Advertise issues on media/social media
Contribute to campaign ads ( tv/ radio )
how can there be bias in the media
spinning, leaking, or staging
what does an open primary have
36 states
All voters participate
More moderate candidates
what is 501(c)4
Social welfare organizations that may participate in political activities, they are tax exempt groups and politics cannot be the primary purpose
what is the purpose of PP
They are the major mechanisms behind the creation of policies and leadership choices
They provide a link ( middle man ) between the citizens and the government
how do interest groups gain their support
- other people who support the issue they are fighting for or against
- campaigning
- media
what is the watchdog function used for
watching the candidates every move to ensure if they mess up that people are going to know about it
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what does a super PAC do
Independent expenditure
Groups do not giver directly to a candidate
No spending limit
May spend money on issues/ advertising but not in connection with the campaign
May collect direct $$ from businesses and unions
Soft money
what are the functions of a PP
Nominating candidates
Informing and activating supporters
Bonding agent
Governing
Watchdog
gun laws
what are the 3 essential roles of the press
Serves as a “watchdog” over government
Sets the public agenda
Supports the free exchange of ideas, information, and opinions
after the election
what is the difference between hard and soft money
Hard money - money given directly to candidates where limits and regulations apply
Soft money - political donations given to the party that can avoid government regulations
what is a bonding agent
Helps ensure a good performance of its candidate
Background checks and ensures quality of candidates