Final answer:
Interest groups can influence Congress through lobbying, both direct and indirect. They hire lobbyists to advocate for their goals, engage with lawmakers and committees, and provide expertise and information. Outside lobbying tactics are also used to raise awareness and create public pressure.
Step-by-step explanation:
Interest groups can influence Congress through lobbying, both direct and indirect. They hire lobbyists who provide information about legislative proposals and advocate for the goals of the interest group. Lobbyists engage with lawmakers, committees, and government agencies to influence the crafting of legislation and policy proposals.
Interest groups also use outside lobbying tactics, such as issuing press releases, placing stories in the media, and mobilizing their members to contact lawmakers. They aim to raise awareness and create public pressure that can influence lawmakers' decisions.
In addition, interest groups target lawmakers who are influential in relevant committees and during the negotiation process. By providing expertise and information, they can indirectly influence other lawmakers who may defer to their colleagues' opinions.