What is meant by “interest group politics”?

"Interest group politics" refers to the competition between various interest groups to influence policy decisions made by government entities. In this context, interest groups are organized groups of individuals who share common objectives and actively seek to promote their interests to policymakers. They engage in advocacy, lobbying, and mobilizing public opinion to sway decisions on legislation, regulations, and other government actions that affect their members or causes.

The nature of interest group politics highlights how different groups, whether they are representing business interests, labor unions, environmental causes, or any other sector, vie for attention and influence in the political process. This competition can lead to a dynamic political landscape, where policymakers must navigate various pressures and priorities from multiple stakeholders.

Other options do not accurately capture the essence of interest group politics. For instance, avoiding political discussions does not imply influence or competition related to policy. Similarly, while political parties do seek votes, they operate differently than interest groups, which focus specifically on advocacy for particular issues rather than broad electoral strategies. Lastly, the negotiation of international agreements on trade pertains to international relations and diplomacy, rather than the domestic power struggles and lobbying efforts that characterize interest group politics.