Question 1: Interest groups attempt to influence politicians and public policy in a variety of ways. Define the term interest group, distinguishing it from a political party, and briefly describe some of the ways interest groups seek influence.

The overhaul of the US healthcare system brought about by the 2010 Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (ACA), or Obamacare, attracted the attention of interest group representatives from the insurance industry, hospitals, medical device manufacturers, and organizations representing doctors, patients, and employers. Lobbyists and ordinary citizens sought to shape the legislation and voice their opinions through various means, such as protests and legal challenges to provisions like the Medicaid expansion requirement. Despite these efforts, the ACA remains largely intact after two Supreme Court rulings in favor of the law.

Interest groups, whether for or against the ACA, are essential in representing the interests of individuals, corporations, and the public before the government. They play a crucial role in informing lawmakers and the public about issues, keeping tabs on government actions, and advocating for policies that promote their interests at the federal, state, and local levels.

Interest groups vary in the scope of their interests, with some focusing on a particular issue or representing a broad range of interests. For instance, businesses, corporations, or governments often register to lobby for benefits from the legislature, while other interest groups consist of members who pay dues to join voluntarily. Some organizations form alliances and join trade associations representing their industry or field. Interest groups can represent private or public interests, with private interests seeking narrowly distributed benefits that primarily benefit the wealthier members of society. Conversely, public interests aim to represent a broad segment of society or all individuals.

Question 2. Discuss the differences between public and private interest groups. Which areas does each try to influence, and why? From which sources does each of these groups receive the funds needed to function?

There is a debate about whether political donations made by interest groups constitute free speech. Some argue that the First Amendment guarantees the right of these groups to contribute money to political candidates. However, despite contrary Supreme Court rulings, others disagree...…how they respond to new information.

Media coverage of electoral candidates has increasingly shifted towards analysis rather than reporting. Candidate sound bites have become shorter. Nowadays, the press focuses on horse-race coverage of campaigns rather than offering in-depth analysis of candidates and their positions, compelling voters to seek alternative information sources like social media. Contemporary government coverage primarily centers on the presidents actions rather than presidential policies. Conversely, Congress is seldom influenced by the media. Congress members or committees have already discussed most issues covered by the media.

The media can shape discussions and select images, information, and videos to support stories, potentially impacting how individuals vote on social policies and elections.

Question 8. Discuss divided government. Does redistricting have any effect? What is gerrymandering?

Political parties are essential to the functioning of any democratic system. In the early days of the US, influential individuals with differing views on power distribution between the national and state governments established political parties. By 1860, the current two-party structure, with Republicans and Democrats, had emerged. Although various smaller parties have tried to disrupt the existing power…