A debate about interest groups in Texas

Interest groups play a role in many aspects of the political process in Texas. Debate remains as to whether the prominence of these groups is good or bad for democracy in the state.

A lobbyist and a reformer are engaged in an argument about interest groups in the state of Texas. Use the dropdown menus to complete their conversation.

REFORMER: You know, a lot of problems that we face in America today probably could be eliminated if your profession were abolished outright.

LOBBYIST: Excuse me? I think you're mistaken. I am a lobbyist, hired by an organization of people with shared goals that tries to (blank #1) public policy. There's nothing more democratic than that.

REFORMER: Don't suggest that I am antidemocratic or somehow un-American. I'm a true patriot! I understand that organized interests link people with the policies that have an impact on their lives and that, as such, they are protected by the First Amendment right to (blank #2) and to petition the government for redress of grievances. I simply fear that interest groups have become a tool of the (blank #3) rather than working to enable broad participation in influencing public policy.

LOBBYIST: But in Texas, all groups (blank#4) to win support for their ideas and positions. Left, right, center, rich, poor—everyone can be represented. That's the wonderful thing about our democratic system.

Blank #1 Options: suppress/interpret/influence

Blank #2 Options: assemble/bear arms/a speedy trial

Blank #3 Options: elite/middle class/poor

Blank #4 Options: are required/have an opportunity/are encouraged

A "reformer" is an advocate of change, either in the society's laws or social system while a "lobbyist" is a person who is hired by somebody in order to influence the law makers into supporting a particular cause or a business. So, this explains Blank # 1.

Blank #2: According to the reformer, a person has the ability to "assemble" and to petition the government when they have a complaint. This, for him, is an example of a democracy that people can enjoy.

Blank #3: The reformer is trying to oppose the idea of the lobbyist by stating that the "elite" or "rich people" uses interests groups (such as lobbyists) into influencing the public policy. They are using these groups in order for them to become richer.

The lobbyists, counteracted the reformer by stating that in Texas, all groups have the opportunity to be supported when it comes to their ideas and positions. This right makes the democratic system for the lobbyists wonderful. So, this explains Blank #4.