Chapter 10 Interest Groups and State Government POLS 15

Flashcards for reviewing terms and definitions related to interest groups, lobbying, and political action committees.

Interest Group

An organized group that tries to influence public policy decisions.

Lobbyist

A person who attempts to influence policymakers on behalf of an interest group.

Political Action Committee (PAC)

A group that raises money for candidates and campaigns.

Super PAC

A group that can spend unlimited money on political campaigns but cannot coordinate directly with candidates.

Revolving Door

Movement of individuals between government positions and lobbying jobs.

Direct Lobbying

Efforts to influence policymakers through direct interaction.

Grassroots Lobbying

Efforts to mobilize the general public to contact policymakers.

Litigation Strategy

Using the courts to influence policy (suing government or filing amicus briefs).

Free Rider Problem

When people benefit from an interest group's work without joining or contributing.

Public Interest Group

An interest group that seeks benefits for the broader public, not just its own members.

Private Interest Group

A group that seeks to secure economic or material benefits for its members.

Initiative Process

A form of direct democracy allowing citizens to propose and vote on laws.

Referendum (California)

Citizens vote to approve or reject laws passed by the legislature.

Recall (California)

Voters can remove elected officials from office before the end of their term.

Lobbying

Attempting to influence policymakers through direct contact and advocacy.

Special Interests

Groups pursuing specific, often narrow, policy goals.

Direct Democracy

A system where citizens make laws through initiatives, referenda, and recalls.

Interest Group Politics

The competition among groups to influence public policy and government decisions.

Grassroots Campaign

A movement driven by the general public to influence government policy.

Ballot Measure

A proposed law or amendment placed on the ballot for voter approval.