In recent years, political action committee (PAC) contributions ...

[gbarreiro]

In recent years, political action committee (PAC) contributions have become increasingly important in federal elections.
 
  In light of the influence of PAC money on elections and policy making, is this trend a sign of a healthy democracy, or is it a troubling development?

Question 2

What are some of the main arguments against interest groups today? Do you think some types of interest groups are cause for greater concern? Provide examples in your answer.
 
  Answer:

[dominiqueenicolee]

Answer to Question 1

An ideal response will:
1. Explain what a PAC is: an organization that collects contributions from multiple individuals and distributes them to political candidates.
2. Discuss the rise of PACs since the 1970s and provide examples of specific PACs.
3. Explain and evaluate some of the implications of PACs for elections, including the fact that most congressional candidates depend on PAC money to get elected and the fact that PACs contribute disproportionately to incumbents.
4. Discuss and evaluate the influence of PACs on policy making, including the fact that PACs gain access to elected officials but are not guaranteed influence.
5. Articulate a position regarding whether PACs are good or bad for democratic governance, based on the influence of PACs on elections and policy making

Answer to Question 2

An ideal response will:
1. Describe the arguments against interest groups. They don't represent all people equally. Some are better organized with more funding, which provides an advantage. The variety of interests leads to confusion on policies, inefficiency, and delays. More interest groups support incumbents, which provides an unfair advantage.
2. Explain how single-issue interest groups (abortion, handgun control, tobacco subsidies, animal rights) have caused concerns.
3. Include the student's opinion on the validity of the arguments against interest groups. The opinion should be supported with content from the chapter.
4. Refer to the question of how we regulate interest groups without threatening liberty.