UCI Interest Groups Active in American Government & Politics Discussion

Answer the following four questions

• Describe some different types of interest groups that are currently active in American politics. How do so-called netroots organizations differ in their organization, communication, objectives, recruitment, and tactics from more traditional interest groups? (There are two components to this question.)
• The federal government has made many attempts to regulate lobbying over the course of American history. Discuss the federal government’s rules regarding lobbying and what impact they have on the strategies employed by lobbyists. In your answer, be sure to discuss specific laws passed by Congress as well as recent Supreme Court decisions on campaign finance. Be sure to also include in your answer the findings in the video that was posted in this week’s module content page titled “Controversy of Lobbyist in the US” specially give one give one example of a controversy between one member of congress and lobbyist.
• There are many different ways that members of Congress can represent the American people. Define and discuss the differences between sociological and agency representation. Which type of representation do you think the U.S. Congress provides best? Why? Be sure to also include in your answer the findings in the video that was posted in this week’s module content page titled “Does Congress Represent?”
• Many political observers have identified a strong “incumbency advantage” in congressional elections. Describe what this term means and explain the reasons behind it. In particular, discuss some of the ways members of Congress can provide patronage to their districts and the role that redistricting plays in congressional elections. There are three components to this question.