American Government Study Guide Essay

1. An interest group is about collection of people trying to influence government in order to protect their concerns. Both try and influence public policy, interest groups do it ouside of the electoral process and are not responsible to the public. A political party must win elections, and candidates run for office as a party member, not an interest group member.
NRA- national rifle association, defenders of wildlife, sierra club-enviroment, mother against drunk driving MADD
2. Interest groups use a number of strategies in attempting to influence the government like lobbying. They are contributing money to the election campaigns of those running for government office. They create public pressure on government by working to mobilize popular support for their causes. Ex. Letter writing campaigns, protests and adversiting through other media exposure. Some lobbysists used to influence interest groups by testify a hearings, contacting government officials directly to present your point of view, attempting to shape the implemnation of policies, helping to draft legislation, inspiring letter-writing campaigns, filing suit or otherwise engaging in migration, making financial contributions to electoral campaigns and attemping to influence appointments to public office.
3. Political action committees are the financial arms of interest groups through which thy raise money and make monetary contributions to candidates and political parties during elections. Much of the political advertising that you see on television is funded by the PAC. Pacs are not limited in the amount they spend on advertising to support their own issues.
4. A political party is an organization created for the purpose of winning elections and governing once in office. The constitution says nothing about political parties.
Democrats 1824 to present, Republicans 1860 to present
5. Single member disctricts vs. proportional representation. In single member, the winner of the plurality of the vote wins the election and represents the district in congress or the state legislature. State election laws and financing rules favor the established parties.
The functions of political parties serve as a force for moderation and stability. Provides a path for individuals into government service and politics. Mobilize public support for office holders and candidates running for election.
6. Formulate a national party platform, which is a statement of party values and goals. Organize and operate the legislative branch of gov.
Every 4 years , they hold a national convention to nominate presidential and vice pres candidates to approe the party platform.
7. Minor Political parties, also known as third parties. Roots in sectionalism, in economic protest, the environment, an idealogy. In 2006, nearly 350 third party candidates ran for seats in congress but none won.
8. Many americans don’t identify a major party or a third party and they are considered independents. A third of the electorate identify themselves as independents. Independents are considered swing voters, many elections are determined by how they vote as a group.
9. Ideology- generally believe government is best when it governs least. (laissez-faire capitalism.)Believes in keeping taxes low on businesses and individuals, even the wealthy and encourage private sector. Believes the government should not spend more money than it takes in. Favors less government spening on social safety net programs, should take more responsibility. Prefer state and local governments to handle social and societal needs over federal government actions and programs. Favors national security, strict law enforcements, favors the 2nd amendment.
10. Conservatism: followers are called conservatives, support rep party
Liberalism: called liberals, named progressives, support democratic party.

11.Primary elections are open and closed primaries, general elections, initiative, referendum and recall elections.
Primary elections in which

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