How Effective Are Political Action Groups?

[DawnCt1]

DS has a paper to do and he is writing about political action groups. I would certainly include MADD (mother's against drunk driving) as a very effective political action group that has influenced recent legislation. Do you have any other examples you would be willing to share?

 

[Cindy's Mom]

well if you were to include the NRA - I'd say they are very effective. Assault weapons are still legal.

 

[wvrevy]

Define "Political Action Group". If you use a loose description, then it's safe to say they can be very effective. It takes no more than a look at the last election and the actions of the misnamed "Vietnam Veterans for Truth" to see that.

 

[kpm76]

I think it depends on whether you are talking state/local level or federal. If state/local, it breaks down even further depending on your state legislature. For example, in RI we have a part-time legislature so all elected officials have other professions. Based on those professions and relationships, certain groups tend to be more effective than others. So, if you're talking state/local level, look to your legislature and it's composition. Federally, I have experience with criminal justice related issues so I'll speak to that area. The Violence Against Women Act was just reauthorized and while many other criminal justice related grant programs have taken a huge financial hit, the domestic violence/sexual assault programs have remained level funded and that is a direct result of the very hard-working dedicated advocates and their strength in numbers....hope this helps!

 

[DawnCt1]

These are all very valuable contributions. Thanks.

 

[caitycaity]

aarp - one of the most powerful of all!

 

[DawnCt1]

aarp - one of the most powerful of all!

That is absolutely true. The memberships are so low and they target everyone just prior to their 50th birthday, that most people jump at the chance to get the discounts and fork over the $$$. I had totally forgotton about that one.

 

[cherylp3]

I'm not sure if this counts but look up the following

Hadassah
currently they are working on Stem Cell Research support, they have done
genetic discrimination

AKC - American Kennel Club
Dog breed discrimination
Puppy Protection Act
Homeowner Discrimination based on Dog breed.

Also HSUS (Humane Society of United States ) and ASPCA