2. Political Parties, Interest Groups, and Public Opinion

Political parties organize voters around broad platforms and nominate candidates. Interest groups focus on specific issues such as taxes, environmental policy, gun rights, labor rights, or education. Both try to influence government, but they are not the same thing.

Public opinion is what people think about issues and leaders. It can be measured through polls, but a good poll must use a representative sample and neutral wording. A poll asking only one neighborhood or using loaded language can mislead.

Media also shapes civic life by informing the public, investigating leaders, and providing a forum for debate. On the GED®, evaluate media sources by asking who created the message, what evidence is provided, and whether the source uses fact, opinion, or propaganda.

References: National Archives: Milestone Documents