Select an interest group (AARP, AHIP, Coalition for Health Services Research, Emergency Nurses Association, Pharma)
Discuss how they are pushing their agenda (i.e., mechanisms used to influence policy makers), key obstacles, and spending (consult the Center for Responsible Politics, www.opensecrets.org)
Investigate the interest group’s website and review their position statements, testimony, and consult media reports to obtain more information on the group’s lobbying efforts.
Interest Groups
Full Answer Section
- Grassroots Mobilization: AARP has a large and active membership base. They mobilize their members to contact their representatives, participate in rallies, and support candidates who align with their agenda.
- Research and Advocacy: AARP conducts research on aging issues and uses it to inform their advocacy efforts. They publish reports, issue white papers, and provide expert testimony before Congress and state legislatures.
- Public Education: AARP educates the public about issues affecting older adults through various channels, including their website, publications, and social media.
- Competing Interests: AARP faces competition from other interest groups with different priorities, such as healthcare providers, pharmaceutical companies, and budget hawks.
- Partisan Gridlock: Political polarization in Washington can make it difficult to pass legislation that advances AARP's agenda.
- Generational Concerns: Policymakers may be reluctant to support policies that benefit older adults at the expense of younger generations.
- Advocacy: https://www.aarp.org/pri/departments/ppi/about-ppi/ - This section provides information on AARP's key advocacy issues and legislative priorities.
- Testimony: https://www.aarp.org/research/about/ - This section archives AARP's testimony before Congress and state legislatures.
- News: https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/members-only-access/aarp-bulletin/ - AARP's news section often covers their lobbying activities and legislative victories.
Sample Answer
AARP: Pushing for Policies for Older Adults
Interest Group: AARP (American Association of Retired Persons)
Agenda: AARP advocates for policies that improve the lives of Americans aged 50 and over. These include issues like Social Security solvency, Medicare access and affordability, long-term care options, and financial security for retirees.
Mechanisms for Influencing Policymakers:
- Lobbying: AARP maintains a robust lobbying presence at the federal and state level. According to OpenSecrets.org, they spent over $14 million on lobbying activities in 2023.