Final answer:
The correct order for the steps in electing a president is political parties, media, and then interest groups. Political parties begin the process by organizing candidates and campaigns, followed by media publicizing the candidates, and interest groups supporting their favored candidates.
Step-by-step explanation:
The steps for electing a president are complex and involve the interaction of various institutions and phases. Initially, political parties play a crucial role in organizing and determining decision-making authority. They help candidates run for election and govern. As candidates declare their interest in running, they partake in various activities to build a base of support, which may include public appearances, speeches, and heavy use of social media. After declaring candidacy, they enter Campaigning Phase 1, where they seek to gain enough public support or delegates to become the party nominee. Following this, Primaries and Caucuses are held for voters to participate in selecting the party's nominee. Throughout this process, the media plays an essential role in publicizing candidates and their platforms, while interest groups support candidates by trying to influence public policy and rally their members to vote in line with their goals. Ultimately, the final step involves the General Election, where the electorate votes, and the Electoral College formally elects the president. Therefore, the correct order is (c) Political parties, media, interest groups.