Special Interest Groups and Political Power

Special Interests Groups and Political Participation

Special interests groups are very active in the intentions and how they affect government policy. These groups have in the past; now and in the future become the center stone in public policy. These special interest groups are “the people” of America voicing their opinion to the government, about decisions that will affect their lives as Americans, in large or small groups. Special interest groups offer many benefits to government officials to help them in, get to or accomplish a goal in their political power. My family has recently had an encounter with a special interest group in our hometown community; I will use this experience in this paper to demonstrate the power of the special interest group in America.

What special interest did the group represent, and what were its primary demographic targets?

The special interest group that I am using is called “Save Our Hills”. The special interest concern was a County permit application for the issuance of a Special Exception permit to operate a non-metallic mine site. Save Our Hills organized itself as a non-profit organization. Save Our Hills represents a group that has a strong interest in keeping sand mines out of the country in which we reside. Save Our Hills primary demographic targets are the government entities responsible for land use Town Land Use Plan Commission, Town Board, and County Board of Adjustment, County Board.

How did the group encourage members to participate in the democratic process? Did you feel empowered by participation in this group?

They began by visiting neighbors with door to door petition promoting to encourage government officials to disallow sand mining operations on a local privately owned and operated dairy farm site. They conducted an internet petition, held private meetings, wore “Save Our Hills” buttons, placed informational flyers at local businesses, message by telephone, posted signage in the...