Interest Groups by Ava

AP

Interest Group

An organization of people with shared policy goals that seek to influence government decision-making. 

Pluralism

The idea that political power is distributed among multiple competing interest groups. 

Hyperpluralism

A theory that too many strong interest groups can weaken government effectiveness. 

Elitism

The belief that a few wealthy or influential groups dominate political decision-making. 

Lobbying

The process of attempting to influence lawmakers and government policy. 

Grassroots Mobilization

 When interest groups encourage citizens to take political action, such as protests or letter-writing campaigns. 

PAC (Political Action Committee)

A group that raises money to support candidates aligned with their interests. 

Super PACs

Organizations that can raise unlimited funds to influence elections but cannot coordinate directly with candidates. 

Iron Triangle

The relationship between interest groups, congressional committees, and bureaucratic agencies that shape policy. 

Issue Network

A broader and more fluid alliance of interest groups, experts, and policymakers that influence policy over time. 

Revolving Door

The movement of individuals between government positions and interest groups/lobbying jobs. 

Amicus Curiae Brief

A legal document filed by interest groups to provide additional arguments in court cases. 

527 Groups

Tax-exempt organizations that engage in political advocacy and can raise unlimited money. 

Federalist No. 10

Warned about factions but argued they are inevitable in a free society. 

Single-Issue Groups

 Interest groups focused on one policy area, such as gun rights (NRA) or environmental protection