Interest Groups

  1. Select an interest group (AARP, AHIP, Coalition for Health Services Research,
    Emergency Nurses Association, Pharma)
  2. 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)
  3. 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

Full Answer Section

            5) Navigate the official website of the selected interest group to locate and review their official position statements and any public testimony they have provided. (6) Find and analyze media reports, academic articles, and other external analyses detailing the lobbying efforts and political influence of the selected interest group. (7) Identify specific legislative or regulatory initiatives that the interest group is actively supporting or opposing. (8) Evaluate the perceived effectiveness and impact of the interest group's advocacy efforts on public policy.

Sample Answer

            1) Select one interest group from the provided list (AARP, AHIP, Coalition for Health Services Research, Emergency Nurses Association, Pharma) and obtain an overview of its mission and primary policy objectives. (2) Identify the various mechanisms and strategies the selected interest group employs to influence policymakers and advance its agenda. (3) Research the financial spending of the selected interest group on lobbying and political contributions, specifically consulting the Center for Responsible Politics (www.opensecrets.org). (4) Determine the key obstacles and challenges the interest group faces in achieving its policy goals and influencing legislation.