STANDARD CE.7c
Impact of the Media

What influence does the media have on public policy and policymakers?

The media informs policymakers and influences public policy.

Ways media play an important role in setting the public agenda:
• Focusing public attention on selected issues
• Offering a forum in which opposing viewpoints are communicated
• Holding government officials accountable to the public

Government officials use the media to communicate with the public.

STANDARD CE.7d
Individuals and Interests Groups Influence Public Policy

How do individuals and interest groups influence policymakers?

Individuals and interest groups influence public policy.

Terms to know:
Lobbying: Seeking to influence legislators to introduce or vote for or against a bill

Ways individuals influence public policy:
• Participating in politics (voting, campaigning)
• Expressing opinions (lobbying, demonstrating, writing letters)
• Joining interest groups

Ways interest groups influence public policy:
• Identifying issues
• Making political contributions
• Lobbying government officials