Critical examination of the characteristics, tactics, opponents and policy impact of a national interest group operating in the USA today

Interest groups significantly shape the political landscape in the United States, a nation that prides itself on modern democracy. Their influence is amplified by the relative weakness of political parties, which tend to focus on specific issues rather than broad ideologies. The federalist system facilitates this by providing multiple access points for advocacy, allowing local interests to gain national attention through media and the Internet. Additionally, the independent judiciary and protections for free speech bolster the ability of these groups to express their interests effectively.