The Debate on Interest Groups - Some say that interest groups are a necessary part of our democratic system, while others Say they overwhelmingly benefit the wealthy. The Benefits of Interest Groups - Some argue that interest groups promote pluralism and provide an outlet for the Government to learn what the public wants. - Pluralism – The American political process is open to all and should correspond to public Desires - Unions lobby to protect members of certain fields of work Benefits of Interest Groups - Interest groups provide expertise on issues that can be beneficial to policy makers - It is impossible for policy makers to be experts in every field - They will often help congress people draft legislation Criticism of Interest Groups - Some argue that interest groups only benefit wealthy corporations, often at the expense Of common people - Regarding lobbying: money equal’s influence - Power elite theory – View that a small number of wealthy people exercise control over the Government The National Rifle Association - One of the most successful lobbying groups - Oppose the regulation, or ban of, weapons and ammunition - The NRA is extremely successful at mobilizing support or opposition to politicians or Legislation - Successfully use email blasts, pamphlets, social media - Very good at getting voters to the polls - Some blame the NRA for instances of gun violence - Others believe that this blame is misplaced, the NRA is simply promoting the issues it Members care about. The Iron Triangle - The policy making relationship between interest groups, bureaucracy, and congressional Committees - A symbiotic relationship exists between all three entitles - They rely on each other to get things done