Interest Groups and Lobbying shows how political organizations and their lobbyists play a crucial role in how policy is made in the United States.It cuts through the myths and misconceptions about interest groups and lobbyists with an accessible and comprehensive text supported by real-world examples and the latest research. New to the Third EditionFurther updates and expands the discussion of social media and other online activity engaged in by interest groups, showing that they have become more sophisticated in their use of the internet – especially social media – for keeping current members informed and for their advocacy work. New case studies on more recent advocacy efforts. Updated data used in the book, including:Data on the ideological distribution of Washington interest groupsTotal number and types of interest groups lobbying in the 50 statesData on campaign contributionsData on amicus briefs and case sponsorshipNew discussion on the ethical and public interest obligations of lobbyists.