Interest Groups and Political Parties (essay 10)

     While interest groups and political parties each play a significant role in the United States political system; however, they differ in their fundamental goals. Interest groups are social groups with a common understanding or goal they want to achieve. Political parties are organizations that want to gain power in government.
      The fundamental goal of interest groups in the political process is influencing public policy and the government. The fundamental goal of major political parties is to elect people into office and gain control of government.
     Interest groups support the fundamental goal of political parties by monetary contributions through PACs. The groups also provide the mobilization of people. While the interest groups are aiding political parties, they are also helping themselves. They help themselves by gaining access to political officials, such as policymakers. They also gain the fact their legislation is put on the policy agenda.