Definition of

Interest Group

Organization of individuals that share

common political goals and unite for the purpose

of influencing policy

Different from political parties:

Do not seek election

Types of Interest

Groups

Citizens’ Groups• Form to draw attention to issues that affect everyone

(consumer safety, campaign finance reform)• Example: The League of Women Voters

Single-issue focused groups• Form to present one view on a really important issue• Example: Mothers Against Drunk Driving

Foreign Policy Groups• Form to generate support for favorable US policy toward

other countries• Example: The Coalition to Save Darfur

Economic Groups• Form to protect the economic interests of their members

– can break into four types• Example: Chicago Teacher’s Union

Economi

c Interest Groups

Trade associations • Particular businesses or

industries • ex: Chamber of Commerce

Professional associations • Specific job type • ex: American Bar Association

Large corporations • May also join similar

businesses • ex: Wal-Mart

Unions • Seek safer working

conditions /better wages for their members

• Ex: Chicago Teachers’ Union

Interest: Economic status of their members

Assignment

• Find an Interest Group that supports your opinion about your poll topic. (Let’s not do the NRA).

• What type of Interest Group is it?• Who runs it?• How long has it been around?• Where are the headquarters located?• What is their current approach to the issue?• Who do they lobby in Congress? (Specific Names)• Whichpresidental candidate did your IG support in

2012?