Explain, using examples, the differences between sectional groups and cause groups in U.S politics. (10 marks)

A pressure group is an organised interest group which hold similar beliefs and actively pursue ways to influence the government. There are many pressure groups due to the Constitution and the amount of access points in US politics. These groups can be sorted into sectional groups (such as business/trade groups, labour unions, and professional groups) and cause groups (such as policy groups, ideological groups, and think-tanks).

Sectional groups seek to represent and protect their own section or group in society. For example, the American Medical Association defends all American doctors and the American Bar Association protects the interests of American lawyers. These groups are highly involved in lobbying the government on economic and professional interests and are highly representative organisations. Many sectional groups are insider lobbyists located on K-Street and are primary involved and consulted on policy in particular areas. For example, most doctors belong to the AMA and therefore their views and interests are represented in this group and taken into consideration by the government. These groups ,however, only defend the rights of one societal group such as women (National Organisation for Women) and people of colour (NAACP) and do not represent whole society…