Question

Goal: To explore the internet websites of various interest groups, and become familiar with information related to each interest group as you relate it to the chapter in our textbook.

http://www.aarp.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.nra.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.sierraclub.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.nea.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.ca.lwv.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.csgv.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.aflcio.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.uschamber.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.
http://www.aclu.org (Links to an external site.)Links to an external site.


1. Pick two of the above mentioned interest groups or research other interest groups that you might want to become familiar with, and proceed to give the following information:

- Interest Group Name and Website
- Year founded
- Membership numbers
- Description and purpose
- Annual dues if any
- Benefits provide for its members
- Annual Budget
- Address and Phone
- Interest Group webpage
- What are their strategies for influencing policymakers
- Discuss both, the similarities and differences, of the interest groups you picked.

Answer 1

Interest groups, like AARP and NRA, play a significant role in influencing public policy. While they share methods like lobbying, they represent different ideologies and member interests. Their strategies range from direct lobbying to grassroots efforts and litigation to achieve policy goals.

Step-by-step explanation:

Interest groups are organizations that seek to influence public policy based on common concerns and ideologies. They mostly consist of membership organizations, where members join voluntarily and commonly pay dues. Each group has its unique way of influencing policymakers, which can include lobbying, organizing rallies, public education campaigns, and engaging in electioneering efforts. Two prominent interest groups are the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) and the National Rifle Association (NRA).

The AARP, founded in 1958, works on behalf of Americans aged 50 and older and boasts nearly 38 million members. They influence policies on issues like healthcare, retirement security, and consumer protection. Generally, they raise funds through membership dues and advocate through lobbying and litigation.

The NRA, on the other hand, has been an advocate for gun rights since 1871. With millions of members, this group raises funds through membership dues and contributions. They are known for robust political lobbying, educational programs, and strong influence on gun legislation.

Both groups work diligently to recruit and retain members, and they offer a range of benefits including discounts, information resources, and legal protection. Their funding chiefly comes from their large membership bases, and they operate substantial annual budgets to conduct their activities. The strategies for influencing policymakers may include direct lobbying, grassroots mobilization, or litigation, among others. While both AARP and NRA are highly influential, they differ in their ideological focuses and political leanings, reflecting the range of interest represented across the spectrum of American political life.