Third Parties, Political Movements and Interest Groups

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Volume 10, Issue 2

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INSIDE Why Have 5 Myths Is the GOP Interest-group The Fourteenth About the Shedding Spending for 9 Amendment? 16 ‘Tea Party’ 18 A Birthright? 23 Midterm Up October 7, 2010 © 2010 THE WASHINGTON POST COMPANY Volume 10, Issue 2

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program A Word About Third Parties, Political Movements and Interest Groups Lessons: Third parties, interest groups and political movements are not new to One did not have an official party affiliation when elected. One American politics. They add to the debate was a Federalist, others were Whigs and Democratic-Republicans. of issues, influence policies and educate the And since 1856 U.S. presidents have been from either the public. Supreme Court decisions, financial contributions and media coverage also Republican or Democratic Party. This does not mean that these impact elections. two remain the only political parties active in the U.S. Level: Mid to High Subjects: Government, Social Studies, Third parties continue to voice new points of view, educate Political Science the public on issues and influence government policy. These Related Activity: Economics, Journalism organized parties as well as interest groups and political movements are very much part of contemporary America. This guide takes at look at the impact of the Tea Party movement, interest group funding, the Supreme Court’s ruling in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, and the media itself on the 2010 campaigns and elections. Suggested activities incorporate Post news coverage, commentaries, editorial cartoons and graphics. Students are also guided to create a third party. Although there are many issues that may be discussed, we focus on the debates surrounding the Fourteenth Amendment and receiving citizenship as a birthright.

A reminder to Post INSIDE program teachers: If you plan to use articles in this guide in the e-Replica format more than three months after their publication date, remember to bookmark them.

NIE Online Guide Editor — Carol Lange Art Editor — Carol Porter

Available Online All Washington Post NIE guides may be downloaded at www.washpost.com/nie.

Send comments about this guide to: Margaret Kaplow, Educational Services Manager, [email protected]

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program

Third Parties, Political Movements and Interest Groups In the Know Campaign: A series of planned events pursued Third parties, interest groups and political movements are not new to accomplish a purpose; these include to American politics. All have added to the debate of issues, policy speeches, public appearances, media use and decisions and the attitudes of citizens toward their elected officials. advertising. This guide provides activities to examine their role, the media’s influence and impact of finances on campaigns and elections. In Citizen: Member of a political society who addition, Post columnists and an activity address the current debate therefore owes allegiance to and is entitled to surrounding of the Fourteenth Amendment. protection by and from the government Constituent: A resident of a district or member Learn the Language Create a spreadsheet to tally of a group represented by an elected official Review terms that will be data. Set up the methodology. This used in discussion and are found may be done by column inches and Elect: To select by vote for an office in articles. In the Know sidebar seconds on air. It may be done by provides a starting point to learn mention of name and issues. Areas Franchise: Right to vote the vocabulary of politics. that are reviewed could include: • Covering the candidates of the Jus sanguinis: a rule by which a child’s Evaluate Media Influence two major parties citizenship is not determined by place of One job of the media is to inform • Covering third party candidates birth, but by its parents’ citizenship the public. In a republican form of • Covering political movements government, it is important that • Informing readers of interest Jus soli: rule that the citizenship of a child is citizens vote for the candidates groups and their activities determined by the place of its birth who will legislate and secure the • Informing readers of issues kind of country they want. To • Interviewing campaign staffs and Ideology: Comprehensive and coherent set of accomplish both of these essentials involved leaders basic beliefs about political, economic, social in a democracy, the press needs to • Polling the public and cultural affairs that is held in common by take seriously its responsibility to • Serving as a watchdog to a sizable group of people within a society cover campaigns, candidates and campaign finances the many aspects of elections. Independent: Affiliated with or loyal to no one How effectively does the media Explore Third Parties and political party cover campaigns? Does the media Interest Groups give all candidates — not just Give students “Political Impact.” Interest group: Group of people who share Republicans and Democrats — Teachers might begin by discussing common traits, attitudes, beliefs and/ equal coverage? How much does the distinction between a “third or objectives who have formed a formal the media influence election party,” “political interest group” and organization to serve specific interests. They participation and results? a “political movement.” Discussion exist primarily for exerting political influence Organize the class to cover might include: as a means of affecting government policies or different aspects of media coverage. • Where and when have interest legislation. Also called pressure group. With the expansion of media in an issue evolved into an beyond print and Web coverage, interest group and/or political Political efficacy: Belief that one can be this survey should have something movement? Give examples. effective and have an impact on public affairs for every class member to do. You • In addition to the third parties may wish to limit your survey listed, several states have active Political party: An organized group that to The Washington Post, www. third parties. Give students has as its fundamental aim the attainment washingtonpost.com, a news radio examples of ones that are active of political power and public office for its station and a TV station. Or broaden designated leaders. Usually advertises a common commitment to a set of political, the study to include more media. continued on page 4 social, economic and/or cultural values that distinguish it from other parties

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 3 the same causes? Do they work In the Know | continued together or compete? this election cycle. Why might • What methods do movements, Political philosophy: Study of ideas about these political groups exist? political interest groups and third government and politics; general attitude • In what ways can third parties act parties use to shape government toward government’s role in personal, as “spoilers” and change election policy and actions? Give examples. social, economic and cultural issues results? Research findings could be • Why is it difficult for a third party presented in research paper format; Political rights: Rights to participate in the candidate to get media attention? a written profile of a political group; political process “Political Impact” provides a list panel discussions grouped by issues, for possible research by students. time period of activity or size of Rescind: To remove, to make void by action Members of the class might be divided membership; or a series of broadcasts of the enacting authority into “third party,” “political interest (Web, radio, video). group” and “political movement.” Register: To enroll formally, especially as a Students will get to know how these Get to Know the Tea Party voter or student groups function and relate to the two In addition to third parties, there dominant parties. Within each of the have been political movements Representative: A member of the legislature three groups, students will select an with a particular issue that drives chosen by popular vote; government by the example to research further. Areas its message. Avoiding the difficult ballot box that might be included in research process of getting on a state or D.C. include: ballot, proponents work to influence Republican government: System of • What were the causes that the selection and success of candidates governance in which power is held by propelled the three movements in the dominant parties. The tea the voters and is exercised by elected listed (and others that teachers party movement is a contemporary representatives responsible for promoting wish to add)? example. the common welfare • When and how did the Read “5 Myths about the ‘tea movements gather the attention of party’” to discuss and clarify where, Third party: A major political party the general public? In what ways when, and why the Tea Party came to operating over a limited period of time did the media assist their visibility be. Discussion might include: in addition to two other major parties; and help to convey their cause? • Why would “myths” such as these political party organized as opposition to • How do the political interest be perpetuated? the existing parties in a two-party system groups convey their messages, • By whom and which ideological SOURCE: Center for Civic Education Glossary, A Glossary of recruit members and seek persuasion was the Tea Party Political Economy Terms, Merriam Webster Dictionary donations? Can students movement begun? find examples of advocacy • To what does the “Tea Party” advertisements for any of these name allude? groups? To what extent are snail • What issue is the main focus of mailings being replaced by social the Tea Party movement? networking? • What role has the media played in • When was the third party public awareness of its existence? organized? To further which • What draws people to a issue(s) or ideology? If the third movement — shared ideas, anger, party is no longer active, why did or activism for a cause? it cease to exist? • Do leaders of movements need • Which third parties tend to have a charisma, name-recognition and/ longer life? or oratorical ability? What brings • When was the political interest attention to their cause? group organized? To further which issue(s) or ideology? Are there other interest groups that share continued on page 5

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 4 increasing presence of the Tea Party On the Web movement. His cartoon reflects what • Do you think the Tea Party will was known at the time he drew http://voices.washingtonpost.com/politics/ fold into one of the major parties it — concerns about oil merging campaigns.html?nid=roll_campaigns as has been done by previous with the Loop Current in the Gulf of Post Politics movements or grow into its own Mexico and media attention being The Washington Post Political news political party? given groups of citizens across the coverage, Fast Fix column and special U.S. who were collectively known at features: 2010 Campaign Maps, Follow the Put the Tea Party Into Context the Tea Party. Events that have taken Money, Palin Endorsement Tracker and Primaries in Delaware, New York, place since May 24 may influence profiles Kentucky and Nevada were watched. how students view the cartoon now. The primaries were career changers Give students a copy of the editorial http://politifact.com/ for Gov. Charlie Crist (I-Fla.), Sen. cartoon and discuss the questions. PolitiFact Bob Bennett (R-Utah) and Rep. Mike Do students agree or disagree with St. Petersburg Times site seeks to assess Castle (R-Del.). Some say this is all Toles? the truth of statements, advertising and because of Tea Party endorsements of The September 14, 2010, political actions. The “Truth-O-Meter” takes candidates. Do an e-Replica search or cartoon responds to the primary statements and does research to find the visit Post Politics to locate elections. Give students a copy of truth. Ratings range from “All True,” primary election results. the editorial cartoon and discuss “Mostly True” to “Pants on Fire!” Students might be asked to the questions. Do students agree or discuss the following: disagree with Toles? http://www.democrats.org/ • What happened in the latest Democrats primaries as a result of Tea Party Forecast and Follow the November Official Web site of the Democratic National activists and interests? Elections Committee • What do wins by Tea Party- In a number of general elections endorsed candidates mean? Are in November, third party candidates http://www.gop.com/ they a “sign of a civil war within and Tea Party movement-endorsed GOP the Republican Party, pitting the candidates are running. Have students Official Web site of the Republican National Tea Party against the Republican compile a list of these candidates by Committee establishment” as George W. Bush state and D.C. How well do students ad man Mark McKinnon called think these candidates will do? Official Political Web sites it? Or is there “no difference Read and discuss Post coverage, http://www.aipca.org/ between what Republicans believe listen to and read other media American Independent Party in and what the Tea Party activists reports and make a forecast. Perhaps, believe in,” according to Rep. John teachers could hold a class vote. http://www.gp.org/index.php Boehner? Or something else? Follow election night coverage and Green Party of the United States Explain your answer. read the November 3 Post. Compare • What was the success rate of your forecasts with election results. http://www.lp.org/ previous Republican primary Did you understand the voters in Libertarian Party candidates prior to affiliating with these states and D.C.? Who were the Tea Party? these voters — % of registered voters, http://socialistparty-usa.org/ age, and other demographics? Socialist Party USA Read the Editorial Cartoons How are the results of congressional Two editorial cartoons by The races likely to influence the http://teapartypatriots.ning.com/ Washington Post’s editorial cartoonist Obama administration’s agenda for Tea Party Patriots are included in this guide. Tom Toles legislative action? The effectiveness provides visual commentary on the of Congress to vote on issues? Tea Party. The May 24, 2010, cartoon ties the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico to the continued on page 6

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 5 Run for Office Past Post Guides Teachers may wish to remind Register and Join — Perhaps? students of the process that is Primarily, Images Michel Martin’s opinion required in your jurisdiction to run and Issues piece, “Independent — and for office. Questions to be answered Responsible citizens disenfranchised,” focuses on her would include: keep informed about experience with voter registration • How does an individual get on current issues, and exercising her right to vote the ballot? demonstrate knowledge in D.C. Teachers may go from the • Does one need to become the of the political process specific example to a more general member of a political party to run and evaluate the role discussion of why and whether for office? of media in campaigns. individuals should be asked to • What are the advantages of being This guide provides register their party affiliation. a member of a political party? Post articles and commentary, a role-play Before giving students this guest • What is the petition process to simulation, issue comparison activities, and commentary to read, ask them to get an individual on the ballot? editorial cartooning. Reading suggestions answer these questions to get a Teachers could also explore remain pertinent. sense of their understanding of being individuals who currently hold office — April 8, 2008 registered to vote and registered by who switched parties or became party affiliation: independents to run and were Who Has • How and when do you register successful. How many independents the Right to Vote? to vote? Is this determined currently serve in Congress? How In “Who Has the Right differently in various states and strictly should registration for a to Vote?” students the District?” political party be guarded? examine the right to • How do you join a political party? Another area of discussion might vote and from whom • What are the requirements for be the role of religious affiliation this right may be membership, if any? in American politics. Article VI taken. Voting patterns • What does registering as a party of the U.S. Constitution prohibits of American voters in member mean? any religious test for office. How presidential and off-year • How do you participate as a important is religious affiliation to congressional races are studied and used member of a political party? contemporary Americans? in planning a mayoral campaign that will In the Nixon-Kennedy presidential increase voter turnout. Read Michel Martin’s commentary. campaign, Sen. John F. Kennedy — September 27, 2004 Teachers may wish to distinguish in a speech directly confronted closed and open primary elections. voters who were concerned about Control of Congress • What does it mean to be his Catholic faith. From Jimmy The 2002 election disenfranchised? Carter, presidents have expressed provides the faces • Do students agree that members their religious convictions. President and facts from which of the press should not make Obama is a Christian, yet e-mails students can examine their personal political opinions continue to circulate on the Internet American citizens’ known? Even if this means they that he is a Muslim. In 2008, Mitt involvement in the cannot vote in primary elections? Romney, a member of the Church democratic process and What do students think of of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints; the power and influence journalists who take the ethics so Mike Huckabee, an ordained that comes with control far as not to vote in any election? Southern Baptist minister; Sen. Joe of Congress. “From Bill to Law in 5 Easy • Do students agree or disagree Lieberman, an observant Jew; and Steps” handout makes the law-making with the policy of not allowing Roman Catholic John Kerry faced process easy to understand. independents to vote in primary varying degrees of scrutiny by the elections? — November 5, 2002 continued on page 7

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 6 • His father is Irish by birth, his Before reading the article, review the bar mother is British by birth graph with students. What information public, the press and leaders of their • Her father is Chilean by birth, her is provided in the comparison of four faiths. Should a candidate’s faith matter? mother is Mexican by birth years? Why is the identity of the donor Should the media ask questions that • Is a child born of U.S. citizens important to an informed public? relate to one’s religion and a candidate’s in another country, an American Give students “Interest-group spending possible response to issues? citizen? A dual citizen? for midterm up five-fold from 2006; Germany changed its citizenship many sources secret.” Debate the Fourteenth Amendment policy in 2000. Who is a citizen of Read the map graphics to compare Introduce students to the Fourteenth Argentina, Croatia, Ireland, Italy, and contrast how much and where the Amendment and discuss the reasons Puerto Rico, South Africa, Switzerland different interest groups are contributing it was adopted by the states. What and Vietnam? How have the rules funds. For more information, visit Post issue(s) did it clarify? After providing governing birthright of individuals born Politics. the historic framework, teachers should in a country influenced the culture and Read and discuss the article. Questions discuss the current events that impact relationships within the country? could include: recent debate on the provisions of the • What is an interest group? Fourteenth Amendment. What are the Create Your Own Third Party • What does the $80 million spent arguments given by Rep. John Boehner Give students the project to create as of 39 days before election day and others who propose rescinding the their own political party. They feel reflect? In this economy, what amendment? What would be the effect that the two dominant parties are too groups and individuals would invest of rescinding the amendment? engaged in passive-aggressive behavior in advertising and other campaign The worksheet “Why Have the toward each other to enact meaningful expenses? Fourteenth Amendment?” introduces legislation. They are not listening to • How important is control of this amendment and the reasons some citizens on important issues. What are Congress to interest groups? Give want to rescind it. Student also learn these issues? some specific legislative examples. about the process that is in place to Based upon students’ responses to the • How do disclosure requirements make such changes a matter of civic most important issues, group them to differ for donations given to political discourse. form a third party. Give students “Form parties and candidates from those “A 14th Amendment Difference of a Third Party” to direct the activities of given to interest groups? Opinion” provides a longer activity the Founding Congress and to establish • President Obama discouraged the that requires research, comparison and the party’s identity. For step 9, create an forming of moneyed interest groups contrast, and evaluation of concepts. advocacy ad, teachers may wish to refer during his 2008 campaign. Why did Two Washington Post columnists to the April 5, 2010, Post NIE guide, he take this view of interest groups? share their perspectives on the issue. Get an Ad-vantage. The purpose of • Farnam and Eggen write, Before reading, ask students to advocacy ads and examples are provided “Heightened spending by outside define “birthright.” Read and discuss in this curriculum guide found at www. groups has given the Republican E.J. Dionne’s “Is the GOP shedding washpost.com/nie. Party flexibility in choosing which a birthright?” and Michael Gerson’s races to focus on.” Explain what this “Republicans are ramping up the Spend Time on Finance means. birthright battle.” The influence of the Supreme Court’s • Interest groups often invest in Teachers of government classes 2010 ruling in Citizens United v. Federal advertising. How important is may also wish to contrast the current Election Commission is beginning to be advertising in swaying voters? American birthright citizenship with seen. Review this case with students • When the donors to interest the laws in other countries. Introduce and the 5-4 decision. According to T.W. groups are unknown, who can be students to the terms jus soli and jus Farnam and Dan Eggen, “[i]nterest held accountable for inaccurate, sanguinis. groups are spending five times as much misleading or inflammatory Teachers may give case studies to on the 2010 congressional elections as advertisements? apply the rules of citizenship. What is the citizenship of a child who they did on the last midterms.” was recently born in the U.S.:

7 October 7, 2010 © 2010 THE WASHINGTON POST COMPANY Political Impact Political points of view are varied — conservative, liberal, moderate, independent, Democrat and Republi- can. They are expressed in organized political parties, in PACs and movements, in party platforms and guest commentaries. Third Parties An organized political party other than the two major political parties. The party has a platform and its own candidates elected to run for office. Third-party candidates have been successful enough to receive electoral college votes. American third parties have included: American Party or Know-Nothing Anti-Federalist Party Communist Workers Party Constitution Party Federalist Party Green Party USA Libertarian Party Socialist Party USA People’s Party or Populist Progressive Party or Bull Moose Whig Party Political Interest Groups An organization with a defined political goal that works to influence the election of candidates that favor its position(s) and to influence party platforms and policies. These include: American Civil Liberties Union Americans for Democratic Action AARP Club for Growth Green Peace Heritage Foundation Move On National Organization for Women National Rifle Association The Sierra Club Movements and Advocacy Groups A political movement is a group of people working together to achieve a political goal. International political movements have included Fascism, Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO), Sinn Fein, and Red Guard. American political movements have included: Chicano Progressive Tea Party Volume 10, Issue 2

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program

Why Have the Fourteenth Amendment?

All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws. — Section 1, Fourteenth Amendment, Constitution of the United States

1. Why was the Fourteenth Amendment added to the U.S. Constitution?

2. What issue(s) did this amendment clarify?

3. What does it mean to rescind an amendment?

4. What process must take place to rescind an amendment to the U.S. Constitution?

5. Explain the current issues that are related to the Fourteenth Amendment?

6. State three reasons to keep the Fourteenth Amendment. a. b. c.

7. State three reasons to rescind the Fourteenth Amendment. a. b. c.

8. In two to five paragraphs tell why you would vote for or against rescinding the Fourteenth Amendment.

A 14th Amendment Difference of Opinion Before reading “Is the GOP shedding a birthright?” and “Ramping up the birthright battle,” check on your knowledge of documents, people and points of view. What do you know before doing research? If you are uncertain of the answers to the following questions, do some research. Step One: Establish the Involved Parties

1. What does the 14th Amendment state? What does this amendment add to the Constitution? 2. Who were the Radical Republicans of the 1860s — a movement, a separate party or a faction within the Republican party? What did they believe? 3. Do a search of the e-Replica edition of The Washington Post and research other sources to compile some background information on House Minority Leader John Boehner and Senator Lindsey Graham. What does their voting record reveal about them? What have been some of their legislative initiatives? 4. Do a Web search to locate video and other coverage of Rep. Boehner’s comments on the 14th Amendment. What is his stand on the 14th Amendment? 5. Beginning in 2007 with the Republican debates of those seeking to be the party’s nominee for president, what has been Sen. John McCain’s views on immigration and the 14th Amendment? Include the date and place of his statements. If his point of view changed, when did this take place? Step Two: Focus on the Columns of Michael Gerson and E.J. Dionne, Jr. Read and analyze two columns: “Is the GOP shedding a birthright?” and “Ramping up the birthright battle.”

6. How accurately does Michael Gerson present the views of Rep. John Boehner (R-Ohio) on the 14th Amendment? 7. Does Gerson agree or disagree with Rep. Boehner? 8. Gerson has clearly done research. What historic examples does he provide readers? 9. A commentary is often a piece of persuasive writing. Review the arguments provided by Michael Gerson and rank these in order of their persuasiveness. 10. What does columnist E.J. Dionne believe to be “particularly depressing”? 11. What does Dionne think has influenced the stands being taken by Sen. Graham (R-S.C.) and Sen. McCain (D-Ariz.)? Step Three: Compare and Contrast Compare and contrast the commentary written by Michael Gerson and that written by E.J. Dionne, Jr.

12. Both writers begin with background information. Dionne refers to the Republican party’s “greatest political legacy.” Gerson explains Ohio’s failure to ratify the 14th Amendment until 2003. • When does Dionne explain what he means by “greatest political legacy”? • How does giving the story of the Ohio’s action in 1867 help Gerson set up the focus of this commentary for readers? 13. Does Dionne give emotional or logical argumentation? Give examples to support your answer. 14. Select one historical evidence that both present to support their points of view. Which uses the example most effectively? Explain your answer. Step Four: Evaluate Your Point of View Take a stand.

15. Write a guest commentary in which you agree/disagree with those who want to repeal the 14th Amendment. • Do you have enough information to make a stand? • If yes, write your commentary. • If no, what areas do you want to research more? Do some research. Write a commentary in which you express your point of view. Form a Third Party You are concerned citizens. The two dominant parties are too engaged in passive- aggressive behavior toward each other to enact meaningful legislation. Too many of today’s elected officials are not listening to citizens on important issues. Third From reaction to your blog and tweets, you know there are many others who share party your beliefs. Convene a Founding Congress. Consider the following as you form a third party.

1. What is the name of the new party? Will it evoke a third party of the past or will you use a new name?

2. What are the key issues that bring you together?

3. Write a platform for your party. What is your position on the issues?

4. Write an introduction to your party. To which Americans are you speaking? Are you the party for a broad spectrum of Americans or a particular demographic?

5. Who would be the ideal candidate of your party to run for office? What traits do you want this person to have?

6. The candidates of your party will need money to finance a campaign. What interest groups might align with your party? What other sources of funding do you have?

7. The Democrats have the donkey and the Republicans have the elephant as an icon to represent their parties. What will be your icon?

8. Create a campaign button with a slogan and colors that help to convey your message. Are you a red, white and blue party? A green party? Or another combination of colors?

9. Create an advocacy advertisement.

10. Communication is essential to your success. Create a Web site to inform others of your party’s stand on the issues, to introduce your candidates and to provide ways in which citizens can get involved. Name ______Date ______

Running for Office Is Complicated Party Affiliation, Finances, Media Attention and Candidates’ History

Since 1856 U.S. presidents have been from the Republican Party or the Democratic Party. This does not mean that they are the only political parties active in the U.S. Third parties, as parties other than the dominant two are known, have voiced other points of view, educated the public on issues and influenced government policy. With the expansion of Internet communication and social networking, these organized parties and political movements are very much part of contemporary America. Some third parties have existed for more than 100 years. The members of these parties have defined principles and attract new members to their vision. The Prohibition Party is the oldest of these. Another type of third party gains enough strength in state and national politics to influence the stands of candidates eager to attract votes and revise a dominant party’s strategies and platforms. The Reform Party of Ross Perot and the Independent Party of George Wallace are recent examples. The candidacy of Green Party leader Ralph Nader is an example of a third-party candidate who threatens election results by taking sufficient votes away from another candidate in a tight two-party race. The last type of third party is very active in local and state politics, but has little or no national impact. Party Affiliation • What is the distinction between an independent running for office and a third-party candidate running for office? • What are the benefits and disadvantages of running on a third-party ticket? • In which states are third-party candidates running for office in the general election? • In which states are independent candidates running for office? • What impact might these candidates have on the election results? • What are the chances of an independent or a third-party candidate winning office in D.C.? • In which states are candidates who had tea party endorsement running for office? • Who should determine which candidate is really a third-party-endorsed candidate? This question becomes even more difficult to answer when the candidate on the ballot is identified with a political movement. For example, independent candidate for a New Jersey congressional seat Peter DeStefano has identified himself as “New Jersey Tea Party” on the Nov. 2 ballot. Leaders of the New Jersey tea party say he is a “charlatan.” Finances It cannot be denied that having a large campaign fund is helpful. On September 21, Amy Gardner reported in “Tea party works to build on momentum”: Fresh off primary wins in Delaware and Alaska, national “tea party” groups are redirecting the energy of the movement toward the November midterm elections, raising millions of dollars, expanding their advocacy into dozens of congressional races and building voter turnout operations nationwide. Read Gardner’s article for examples of endorsement and financial support in races as well as insight into the influence of interest groups and movements in campaigns. • Should donations from individuals, companies and interest groups be capped? • Would elections be more equitable if all candidates were allowed the same amount of money to spend? None could amass large pots with which they could outspend their opponents?

To get a snapshot of spending on campaigns, visit The Post’s “Campaign cash: Who’s spending where in 2010” (www. washingtonpost.com/wp-srv/politics/campaign/2010/spending/index.html). • Which candidates are spending the most by week? • What do you know about the races in which these candidates are involved? • Which groups are providing the most money by week? • Why would these groups fund campaigns?

Having discussed the charts and the above questions, form 20 groups. Each group is either a candidate or a group from the two lists of top ten spenders. Groups are to click on their assigned candidate to review who is providing them with funds or click on their assigned group to review for whom it is providing funding. Analyze what one can deduce about candidates and organizations by following the money. Name ______Date ______Running for Office Is Complicated | continued

If you had $2 million to spend on the general election, how would you budget the money? Among your expenditures will be transportation, advertising (print, Web, radio and television), and staff salaries. How will you attract volunteers? What is your get-out-the-vote strategy and how much will it cost? Candidate’s History and Character How far back into a candidate’s past should opponents and reporters seek actions, statements or affiliations to broadcast? Trying to find “dirt” on one’s opponent is not new to American campaigning. With the expansion of communication technology, it is even easier to spread true/misleading/false/nuanced information — and more complicated to respond or to refute it. In 2010 elections a number of examples can be found. In the Colorado primary race for governor, former representative Scott McInnis (R) faced plagiarism charges, and in the race for senator, incumbent senator Michael Bennett (D) was accused of being involved in a risky financial deal when he was the Denver superintendent of schools. In the midst of this, race Ken Buck (R) called tea party activists “dumbasses.” In Delaware, tea-party-backed Christine O’Donnell who won her bid to be the GOP nominee was confronted with her statements that she dabbled in witchcraft. • Write guidelines for reporting a candidate’s past. Name ______Date ______

May 24, 2010

1. Editorial cartoonists know current events and often incorporate visual references. To what does “loopy current” refer? 2. Editorial cartoonists know history. To what historic event is Toles referring? 3. With what icons does Tom Toles establish the location? 4. What labels and images add to Toles’ ability to communicate with readers? 5. The cartoonist’s alter ego appears in the lower right corner. What does his comment communicate? 6. What is Tom Toles’ point of view? Name ______Date ______

September 14, 2010

1. What icon indicates the victim of the accident? 2. The lanes of traffic are clearly indicated. From what exit lane did the driver swerve? In what direction did the driver head? 3. If you were to label the tree, what would you name it? 4. The cartoonist’s alter ego appears in the lower right corner. What other “collision” has taken place? To what does this refer? 5. If there were an uncertainty of his point of view, Toles titles his cartoon. What point of view is he expressing in his visual commentary? Volume 10, Issue 2

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program

Myths about5 the ‘tea party’

BY DAVID WEIGEL Sunday, August 8, 2010

he grass-roots conservative activists who march under the “Don’t tread on me” Gadsden flag and the “tea party” label have put a new twist on Gandhi’s T maxim: First they were ignored; then they were ridiculed; then they began to fight. They battled health-care reform and then the Republican establishment, which became angry about the less-than seasoned candidates it was suddenly saddled with. In short order, a movement that few people took seriously has become the most obsessed-over and overanalyzed political backlash since the 1960s. And as long as both parties are grappling with it and publishers are putting out tea party books every month, it’s worth busting a few myths about the movement.

The tea party isn’t a reaction to Some of the people recognized as the damage to people who’d taken out President Obama, it’s a reaction to the leaders of the tea party movement, mortgages they couldn’t afford. And bank bailouts. such as FreedomWorks Chairman Dick it picked up steam when conservative Armey, have loudly condemned the groups fired up activists about energy There are some kernels of truth 2008 financial-sector rescue package. and health-care legislation — the Obama here. The first modern tea party And several members of Congress, such agenda, not a last-ditch conservative 1 events occurred in December 2007, as Sen. Bob Bennett (Utah), have been plan to rescue the banking industry. If long before Barack Obama took office, unable to survive their TARP votes you think the tea party would have risen and they were organized by supporters when facing GOP primary voters. up to oppose a Republican president who of Rep. Ron Paul (R-Tex.) to raise money Here’s the thing, though: The tea spent like mad and violated conservative for his long-shot presidential bid. They parties were kicked off by CNBC reporter principles, then where was it in the Bush received the respectful, hey-look-at-that Rick Santelli’s rant about, of all things, years? coverage sometimes given a candidate Obama’s Homeowner Affordability flipping pancakes at a church social. and Stability Plan, an effort to lessen continued ON page 18

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continued from page 17 plenty of political savvy and hitched about casting ballots than voters who herself to the movement, and reporters, lean Democratic. Democrats have done eager to find a party politics angle to some damage to the tea party brand The tea party is racist. the tea party story — and knowing that — its favorability has fallen in polls Palin’s name brings traffic to news Web — but in general, the presence of a It’s a phenomenon that some sites — anointed her. new political force that is not called activists call “nutpicking” — send Palin has more devoted fans than Republican and is not tied to George 2 a cameraman into a protest and any other Republican politician, but W. Bush has given the GOP a glorious he’ll focus on the craziest sign. Yes, there according to an April New York Times/ opportunity to remake its image, at a are racists in the tea party, and they CBS News poll, only 40 percent of self- time when trust in the party is very low. make themselves known. But tea party identified tea party activists think she Some liberals deride the tea party as activists usually root them out. Texas would be an “effective chief executive.” a new bottle for old Republican wine. activist Dale Robertson, who held a sign They’d like to be leaderless for now, But rebranding works. (Even Coca-Cola likening taxpayers to a racial epithet at thank you very much. But the Tea Party eventually benefited from the publicity a 2009 rally, was drummed out of that Nation, which planned the Nashville of New Coke.) event and pilloried by his peers. Mark event, and the Tea Party Express, which Williams, formerly the bomb-throwing invited the former governor to rallies in The tea party will transform spokesman for the Tea Party Express Nevada and Massachusetts, knew they American politics. (he once told me he wanted to send the could get media to show up if Palin liberal watchdog group Media Matters came along, and they won’t forget that Here, Sen. Graham has history on “a case of champagne” for calling him lesson. his side. A popular, and correct, racist), was booted after penning a 5 aphorism about grass-roots parody that had the NAACP pining for The tea party hurts the GOP. movements is that they act like bees — slavery. they sting, then die. Third parties fold Liberal critics of the tea party argue Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) into major parties, like the 19th century that conservative opposition to social predicted recently that the tea Populists did with the Democrats. spending is often racially motivated. 4 party movement will “die out.” Rep. The tea party is unlikely to even That’s not new, though, and it’s not the Bob Inglis (R-S.C.), who lost his primary reach third-party status, because the basis for the tea party. race to a tea party-backed candidate, has vast majority of its members — up to made the media rounds to accuse the 79 percent, in some polls — identify as Sarah Palin is the leader of the tea party. movement and some of its heroes, such Republicans and are savvy enough not to as Glenn Beck, of poisoning politics. take actions that would help Democrats. After she and John McCain lost the There is no shortage of Republican (Liberals only wish that Ralph Nader 2008 election, and after eight grumbling about the primary wins of thought like this.) The movement’s big 3 unhappy months back at work tea partiers Sharron Angle in Nevada innovations, such as fast organizing, are governing Alaska, Sarah Palin took and Rand Paul in Kentucky, two Senate mostly technological, inspired by and her time to reenter national politics. candidates who are being hammered by improving on Obama’s 2008 campaign. She spent the last half of 2009 writing Democrats for their anti-big-government Their demands are really the same ones Facebook posts that, for all the attention rhetoric. Democrats are doing their best that conservative Republicans were they got, mostly praised the work of to make Republicans answer for it when making after Obama won, and that Rush people such as Rep. Michele Bachmann tea party activists pledge to dismantle Limbaugh and most GOP lawmakers (R-Minn.). It wasn’t until this past Social Security or the Environmental were already making, too. February, at the National Tea Party Protection Agency. So the tea party will succeed, Convention in Nashville, that Palin But in every political cycle there are if it hasn’t already, in making one of picked up the movement’s banner. Her “bad” candidates who say the wrong America’s political parties more credentials aren’t ideal: Tea partiers things — and with the right electorate, devoted to supply-side, pro-war-on- unanimously agree that the TARP was they still win. The tea party movement terror, anti-spending principles. what turned America’s decline into a is giving Republicans a dream of an But it is pushing on an open door. ■ freefall; as a vice presidential candidate, electorate, one in which surveys find Palin backed the TARP. But she showed more GOP-inclined voters enthusiastic David Weigel is a Slate political reporter

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program

E. J. DIONNE JR. Is the GOP shedding a birthright?

Rather than shout, I’ll just ask the escape the thought that his talk of child- designated as blacks, people of color, question in a civil way: Dear Republicans, dropping is designed to appease a right negroes, mulattoes, and persons of do you really want to endanger your wing out to get him because he’s “too African blood,” Johnson declared. “Is it party’s greatest political legacy by liberal.” sound policy to make our entire colored turning the 14th Amendment to our Just as dispiriting: Sen. John McCain, population and all other excepted classes Constitution into an excuse for election- another once-brave champion of citizens of the United States?” year ugliness? immigration reform, has tried to duck Republicans were taken aback that Honestly, I thought that our politics the issue. McCain, facing an Arizona Gypsies were suddenly transformed could not get worse, and suddenly Republican primary challenge on Aug. into a great national peril as part of there appears this attack on birthright 24, has said he supports “the concept of the campaign against the amendment. citizenship and the introduction holding hearings” on the meaning of the In his definitive book Reconstruction, into popular use of the hideous term 14th Amendment’s birthright citizenship historian Eric Foner cites a bemused “anchor babies”: children whom illegal clause. Republican senator who observed in immigrants have for the alleged purpose This is better than endorsing outright 1866: “I have lived in the United States of “anchoring” themselves to American repeal, but what a difference from the now for many a year and really I have rights and the welfare state. McCain whose conscience once compelled heard more about Gypsies within the Particularly depressing is that the him to say of illegal immigrants: “These past two or three months than I have idea of repealing the 14th Amendment’s are God’s children as well, and they need heard before in my life.” guarantee of citizenship to “all persons some protections under the law, and they The methods of politics don’t change born or naturalized in the United States” need some of our love and compassion.” much, even if the targets of demagoguery was given momentum by one of the Nothing should make Republicans do. nation’s most reasonable conservatives. prouder than their party’s role in passing Epps cites an 1859 oration by Carl “People come here to have babies,” what are known as the Civil War or Schurz, the German immigrant and said Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). Reconstruction amendments: the 13th, Republican leader who helped deliver “They come here to drop a child. It’s ending slavery; the 14th, guaranteeing his community’s vote to Abraham called, ‘drop and leave.’ To have a child in equal protection under the law and Lincoln in 1864. Schurz later became a America, they cross the border, they go establishing national standards for leading backer of the 14th Amendment. to the emergency room, have a child, and citizenship; and the 15th, protecting the “All the social and national elements that child’s automatically an American right to vote. In those days, Democrats of the civilized world are represented in citizen. That shouldn’t be the case. That were the racial demagogues. the new land,” Schurz declared. In our attracts people here for all the wrong Opponents of the 14th Amendment nation, “their peculiar characteristics reasons.” used racist arguments against immigrants are to be blended together by the Drop a child? How can a strong believer to try to kill it, even though there were all-assimilating power of freedom. This in the right to life use such a phrase? virtually no immigration restrictions back is the origin of the American nationality, I can’t do better on this than the then. President Andrew Johnson played which did not spring from one family, Cleveland Plain Dealer’s estimable the card aggressively, as University of one tribe, one country, but incorporates columnist Connie Schultz: “I have lived Baltimore law professor Garrett Epps the vigorous elements of all civilized for more than half a century, and I have yet reported in his 2006 book on the 14th nations on earth.” to meet a mother anywhere in the world Amendment, Democracy Reborn. That is the American tradition and the who would describe the excruciating “This provision comprehends the Republican tradition. Senator Graham, miracle of birth as ‘dropping’ a baby.” Chinese of the Pacific States, Indians please don’t throw it away. ■ Graham has long favored comprehensive subject to taxation, the people called immigration reform, so it’s hard to Gipsies, as well as the entire race — August 5, 2010

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MICHAEL GERSON Republicans are ramping up the birthright battle The final state to ratify the 14th children of diplomats accredited to the the Confederacy’s view of citizenship Amendment was Ohio — in September United States and (2) members of Indian but also of the Constitution’s original 2003. The Ohio Legislature had passed tribes who maintained quasi-sovereign silence on the issue, which, in their view, the amendment in 1867 but rescinded status under federal Indian law.” betrayed the promise of the Declaration its approval a year later, claiming it was Advocates for bloodline citizenship of Independence. Their main goal was “contrary to the best interests of the respond: How could the authors of the expressed in birthright citizenship: to white race.” When Ohio finally rectified 14th Amendment have intended to extend prevent a future majority from stealing this embarrassing bit of history, just citizenship to the children of illegal the rights of children of any background, one legislator — Republican state Rep. immigrants when, in 1868, America had as long as they were born in America. Tom Brinkman from Cincinnati — voted no laws restricting immigration and thus Today’s dispute over birthright against it. His opposition was viewed as no illegal immigrants? This betrays a thin citizenship reveals the immigration an isolated curiosity. knowledge of history. In 1868, there were debate in its starkest form. Usually, Now another Ohio politician, Rep. a variety of federal laws that restricted opponents of illegal immigration speak John Boehner, the House minority leader, naturalization to whites and established of giving lawbreakers what they deserve. questions the centerpiece commitment waiting periods for citizenship. But this does not apply in the case of the 14th Amendment: birthright Civil War America did not lack for of an infant. Consider two newborn citizenship. He is joined by Senate unpopular immigrants. The 1860 babies at, say, Parkland Hospital in Minority Leader Mitch McConnell Census found that 13.2 percent of the Dallas. One is the child of citizens, the (R-Ky.), along with Sens. Jon Kyl (R-Ariz.) U.S. population was foreign-born. The other of illegal immigrants. Critics of and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.). figure today is 12.3 percent. During birthright citizenship look at the child The amendment reads: “All persons the debate over the 14th Amendment, of immigrants and feel . . . disturbed? born or naturalized in the United States, Sen. Edgar Cowan of Pennsylvania Outraged? But why? Do they see a child and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, complained that birthright citizenship somehow tainted by illegality? That are citizens of the United States and of would include Gypsies, “who pay no hardly seems fair. A burden on resources? the State wherein they reside.” This is taxes; who never perform military No more than any other poor child. An not the only place in the Constitution service; who do nothing, in fact, which alien lacking allegiance? How could they where birth is decisive. Any “natural born becomes the citizen.” Others objected possibly know? Why not a soldier, or citizen” who meets age and residency that the children of Chinese laborers an entrepreneur, or, as the Constitution requirements can be elected president. would be covered. Supporters of the specifically permits, a president? Critics of birthright citizenship are 14th Amendment conceded both cases For nearly a century and a half, in revolt against the plain meaning of — and defended them. Said Sen. John Americans have taken the view that words. They sometimes assert that Conness of California: “We are entirely these two children at Parkland start their “subject to the jurisdiction thereof” must ready to accept the provision proposed in lives as equals. They acquire their rights exclude illegal immigrants. It doesn’t. this constitutional amendment, that the not because of their parentage or their Undocumented immigrants and their children born here of Mongolian parents bloodline or the permission of politicians children are fully subject to American shall be declared by the Constitution of but because they are born in the United laws. The idea of “jurisdiction” had a the United States to be entitled to civil States. specific meaning in the congressional rights and to equal protection before the The radical, humane vision of the 14th debate surrounding approval of the law with others.” Amendment can be put another way: 14th Amendment. “The language was The Radical Republicans who wrote No child born in America can be judged designed,” says historian Garrett Epps, the 14th Amendment were, in fact, quite unworthy by John Boehner, because each “to exclude two and only two groups: (1) radical. They were critical not just of is his equal. ■ — August 13, 2010

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MICHEL MARTIN Independent — and disenfranchised

I have lived in the District my entire life, mainly as a matter of professional times like these, when the stakes seem adult life, and every four years it’s the ethics. As a journalist who has covered very high, that feels like an unacceptable same: The yard signs sprout on my national politics for most of my career, and unfair trade-off. Clearly, that is neighbors’ lawns, the conversations it would be inappropriate to publicly one reason that, as The Post reported, intensify on my neighborhood e-mail align myself with one team or another. some 2,600 registered independents list, at the playground and at the store, While some of my colleagues take this and several hundred members of the and I have to sit on the sidelines with to what I consider a ridiculous extreme Statehood and Green parties switched my mouth shut. Why? I can’t vote — in — abstaining from voting altogether their registrations to vote in Tuesday’s the primary, that is — not because I’m — I don’t go that far because too many primary. Reluctantly, I was one of them. a convicted felon, noncitizen or because people around the world have died for I will be switching back the day the I don’t care. I can’t vote because I won’t the right to vote, and I will never give election is over. join a political party. up that right or take it lightly. But loyalty Some people resist the idea of open In the District, our nation’s capital, to country is not the same as loyalty to a primaries because they think they open that means I and others like me get no political organization, so I observe what the door to partisan mischief-making, but respect. Our voter registration cards I consider to be appropriate restrictions I really don’t think that would happen in don’t even give us the dignity of calling on my political participation: In addition this city. It’s much more likely that us what we are, which is independent. to registering as an independent, I don’t the change would elevate the discourse. They say what we are not: N-P, for no give money to candidates, endorse them The leading candidates would have to party. That means no candidates or or display campaign materials on my car appeal to people beyond their closed canvassers knock at my door or call my or my lawn. circles of friends, business relationships, house, unless they are looking for my I do pay close attention to the issues, frat brothers and sorority sisters, and, husband. More to the point, they make however, because I live in this city frankly, I think they would have to no effort to court my vote. and I care about it. I suspect many move beyond partisan and racial clichés. This is wrong. Independents make up independents in this city are like me. Because those who are ideologically as much as 40 percent of the electorate They are journalists, judges, religious driven are more likely members of a nationally, and, yes, the District is not leaders, academics — or just those who, party, many of the new voters would be alone in excluding them from party like D.C. Council member David Catania, more motivated by local concerns. The primaries; according to Openprimaries. love their city and follow public affairs candidates would be forced to spend org, 33 states allow independents to but cannot stomach some positions more time talking about the things that vote in presidential primaries, and only of one national party or another. And matter to them. 21 let them participate in congressional while the logic of closed primaries may At a time when the District wants the primaries. But Washington is a place seem to make sense — party members rest of the country to acknowledge its full of independent-minded people who argue things out among themselves and right to congressional representation, care deeply about politics and policy, then put forward their candidates to the doesn’t it makes sense for the city to give and it seems particularly indefensible general electorate for a final vote — we all greater voice to thousands of residents to disenfranchise voters like me in a know that in this city the general election who don’t love the political parties but city whose residents are effectively is a formality. Registered Democrats are do love their city? It is time for the disenfranchised from a role in the overwhelming majority. District to let its independents vote. ■ national affairs because we lack voting As a result, every four years I have — September 11, 2010 representation on the floor of Congress. to choose between my professional I don’t register for a political party responsibilities and my responsibility The writer is host of the NPR news and have not for most of my adult to participate in the life of my city. At and talk program “Tell Me More.”

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program Tea party works to build on momentum

the most energized voting constituency Equally uncertain is whether the BY A MY GARDNER in the country. This movement has been movement’s success with activist primary organizing since before April 2009, and voters will play as well with the broader • Originally Published September 21, 2010 all of that community is energizing and general electorate in November. Most driving public opinion. The establishment polls show that at least as many registered Fresh off big primary wins in Delaware is taking us more seriously. There’s voters view the tea party unfavorably as and Alaska, national “tea party” nothing like turning out votes in an favorably. groups are redirecting the energy of election that matters.” Perhaps no group is more aware of the movement toward the November The new push illustrates the the divisions within the movement than midterm elections, raising millions of movement’s transformation since the FreedomWorks, a tea party organizer dollars, expanding their advocacy into primaries from a disorganized coalition headed by Richard K. Armey, a former dozens of congressional races and of fiscally conservative activists to a corporate lobbyist and congressman building voter turnout from Texas who was operations nationwide. once House majority Leaders of the leader. FreedomWorks Atlanta-based Tea has taken a politically Party Patriots said pragmatic approach they will announce a in deciding which seven-figure donation candidates to endorse. Tuesday, from a In last week’s Senate yet-unnamed person, primary in Delaware, that the organization Tea Party Express will pour into local spent more than tea party groups $200,000 on behalf of and get-out-the-vote melina mara /The washington post AP/ISSAC BREKKEN AP/CHRIS MILLER Christine O’Donnell, efforts in some of Christine O'Donnell Sharron Angle Joe Miller who was challenging the most competitive Rep. Michael N. Castle, congressional races. the establishment FreedomWorks which is headquartered measurable political force. But the tea GOP choice. But FreedomWorks’ leaders in Washington and endorsed 25 House party’s rapid growth — along with the declined to back O’Donnell because they and Senate candidates during the primary influx of cash and political professionals didn’t think she could win the general season, said it will expand that list to — has led some followers to worry that election in November. more than 80. The Tea Party Express, it risks losing its rebel spirit. Yet FreedomWorks, which focuses based in Sacramento, is planning its “Many of the grass-roots activists who primarily on training volunteers and largest national bus tour at the end started this movement 18 months ago, helping them organize phone banks, door- of October to get conservatives to the myself included, may look and ask the knocking campaigns and other voting- polls. question ‘Dude, where’s my movement?’ ” related efforts, is eager to take advantage The goal is to keep alive the momentum said Judson Phillips, founder of Tea Party of the momentum from O’Donnell’s the movement has generated and to Nation, which held the movement’s first victory — and also from that of Joe Miller, use it to target vulnerable Democratic large-scale convention this spring and who beat incumbent Lisa Murkowksi candidates. will have another in Nevada next month. in Alaska’s Republican Senate primary “People are starting to realize that the “There is no question the movement has last month. FreedomWorks endorsed tea party represents a powerful get-out- changed. The evolution of ‘Big Tea’ is O’Donnell the day after her win, and, the-vote machine,” said Matt Kibbe, the logical result of where this movement president of FreedomWorks. “We’ve got must go.” continued on page 12

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 21 not doing that,” she said. “We’ve helped of the states holding those elections, Joe Miller in Alaska and Sharron Angle notably Kentucky, Nevada and Delaware, this week, the group plans to announce in Nevada and Christine O’Donnell in those candidates have helped Democrats that it will back the Senate campaigns Delaware come across the victory lines, remain competitive in races in which of Linda McMahon in Connecticut, they were expected to struggle. Carly Fiorina in California and John “We are more competitive in Raese in West Virginia. these races because they nominated FreedomWorks and other tea party candidates who are extremists,” groups are expanding their lists of Schultz said. approved candidates to include more Still, Democrats must contend establishment-backed Republicans. with perhaps the biggest strength of The intention is to rally tea party the tea party movement, which is its activists behind all Republicans this ability to get conservatives to vote. fall and not just those who identify GOP leaders have bristled at the with the movement. tea party’s willingness to overthrow “We’ve gone through the primary establishment candidates, but no process,” Kibbe said. “I think the tea one doubts the boost that the party has had a tremendous impact AP/ISSAC BREKKEN ray lustig / The washington post movement will give Republicans on the quality of the candidates Sen. Harry Reid, D-Nev. Richard K. Armey in November. coming out of the primaries. But “That’s not a bad trade-off, here we are in the race to November considering that we have this 2, and November 2 is all about holding and we’re behind them 100 percent going tremendous energy and enthusiasm Democrats accountable.” into November.” moving into the fall,” said Brian Walsh, Amy Kremer, chairman of the Tea Party Both national political parties are spokesman for the National Republican Express, distanced her organization from struggling to adjust to the tea party’s Senatorial Committee. “I would take any that general-election strategy, noting that continued prominence. Eric Schultz, one of our candidates over a candidate the group identified its “heroes” and a spokesman for the Democratic on the Democratic side who voted for “targets” on April 15 — and that it is not Senatorial Campaign Committee, said the stimulus bill, who voted for the wavering from the list. the party welcomes the nomination of health-care bill, and whose message is ‘If “There may be some groups that need tea-party-backed candidates in Senate you vote for me, I’m going to vote for the to reevaluate where they are, but we’re races nationwide. He noted that in most status quo in Washington.’ ” ■

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program Interest-group spending for midterm up fivefold from 2006; many sources secret

election. You’ve got the possibility of a buy a favorable result,” said Braley BY T. W. FARNAM AND DAN EGGEN change in the control of Congress.” spokeswoman Caitlin Legacki. “People The increase in conservative spending have no idea where the money came • Originally Published October 4, 2010 has come both from established groups from. It’s difficult to take recourse.” and from groups only a few months old. Interest groups spending large Interest groups are spending five times On the left, major labor groups such amounts on the election are prohibited as much on the 2010 congressional as the Service Employees International by law from talking to candidates about elections as they did on the last Union have also ratcheted up their their strategy. midterms, and they are more secretive expenditures compared with 2006 but Ben Lange, Braley’s GOP challenger, than ever about where that money is are unable to keep up with groups on denies any connection to the American coming from. the right. Future Fund’s attacks. “We have no The $80 million spent so far by groups One of the biggest spenders nationwide interaction with this group,” said Cody outside the Democratic and Republican is a little-known Iowa group called the Brown, spokesman for Lange. “We’re parties dwarfs the $16 million spent at American Future Fund, which has spent not so much concerned with what these this point for the 2006 midterms. In that $7 million on behalf of Republicans outside groups are doing. We want to election, the vast majority of money — in more than two dozen House and have an honest, focused debate on the more than 90 percent — was disclosed Senate races. Donors for the group’s issues.” along with donors’ identities. This year, ad campaign have not been disclosed Fund officials could not be reached to that figure has fallen to less than half of in records the group has filed with the comment. the total, according to data analyzed by Federal Election Commission. The Washington Post. The group recently entered a previously Flexibility for the GOP The trends amount to a spending frenzy sleepy race in its home state of Iowa, Heightened spending by outside groups conducted largely in the shadows. announcing that it would devote up to has given the Republican Party flexibility The bulk of the money is being spent $800,000 to campaign against Democratic in choosing which races to focus on. In by conservatives, who have swamped Rep. Bruce Braley of Waterloo. The West Virginia, the GOP recently spent their Democratic-aligned competition campaign kicked off with a commercial $1.2 million backing businessman John by 7 to 1 in recent weeks. The wave alleging that Braley “supports building a Raese for the Senate seat long held by of spending is made possible in part mosque at Ground Zero.” Braley denies Robert C. Byrd, who died in June. The by a series of Supreme Court rulings supporting construction of the proposed contest had been considered safe for unleashing the ability of corporations Islamic cultural center near the World the Democrats, whose candidate, Joe and interest groups to spend money on Trade Center site, saying it’s a zoning Manchin III, is the state’s governor. But politics. Conservative operatives also issue for New Yorkers to decide. Manchin’s poll numbers have recently say they are riding the support of donors The ad, part of a nationwide campaign slipped. upset with Democratic policies they of similar mosque-themed spots, is While the interest-group money has perceive as anti-business. the brainchild of Larry McCarthy, a primarily helped Republicans, Democrats “The outside group spending is media strategist who gained renown have proved better at raising money primarily being driven by the political for creating the racially tinged “Willie for the party itself and for individual climate,” said Anthony Corrado, Horton” commercials against Democratic candidates. Those donations must, by a professor of government at Colby presidential candidate Michael S. law, come from individuals and are College who studies campaign finance. Dukakis in 1988. limited in size. Much of the interest-group “Organized groups are looking at great “Folks across America should be opportunity, and therefore there’s great worried about these anonymous groups interest to spend money to influence the that go into an election and try to continued ON page 24

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued FROM page 23 spending, by contrast, has been based on large contributions from well-heeled donors and corporations. The Supreme Court cleared the way for unlimited spending by corporations, unions and other interest groups on election ads in its 5 to 4 decision this year in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. Many interest groups are organized as nonprofits, which are not required to disclose their financial backing, helping fuel the increase in secret donors. The Post analyzed spending numbers that groups are required to report to the FEC, including spending on broadcast ads mentioning a candidate’s name within 30 days of a primary and 60 days of the general election. Some expenditures — and donors — are not revealed. Many groups, for example, avoid reporting what they spend on attacks by making a subtle distinction, saying their message is focused on candidates’ positions on issues instead of the election itself. One reason Democrats have benefited less from interest-group spending may be the party’s — and President Obama’s — message against the role of moneyed interests in Washington. And in his 2008 campaign, Obama discouraged such independent interest groups on the left from forming. Some Democratic groups have lowered their spending on election ads. The Internet-based advocacy group MoveOn.org will spend roughly the same amount it did in the 2006 midterms, said Executive Director Justin Ruben, but will concentrate on organizing supporters instead of trying to compete on the airwaves. “We can’t possibly match this spending dollar for dollar,” Ruben said. “Turnout is big in a midterm, and the best way to affect turnout is person-to-person contact. These groups have a few millionaires, but they can’t talk to that many people.”

Organized as nonprofits Conservative groups such as Americans for Job Security and Crossroads GPS, an arm of the American Crossroads group, co-founded by former George W. Bush administration adviser Karl Rove, are organized as nonprofits and don’t have to disclose who is giving them money. Some liberal groups, such as the League of Conservation Voters, an environmental group, are also nonprofits but raise money on a much smaller scale. One major player this year is the 60 Plus Association, an Alexandria-based group that bills itself as the conservative alternative to the AARP seniors group. In 2008, the group reported less than $2 million in revenue, most of it from direct-mail contributions. This year the group has spent $7 million on election-related ads, according to its FEC reports. It also funded a $9 million campaign against Obama’s health-care overhaul in 2009.

continued ON page 25

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program continued from page 24 But 60 Plus spokesman Tom In earlier years, 60 Plus received Kise defended the ads and said significant grants from foundations The group is somewhat renowned the group’s rapidly expanded connected to Pfizer and other major for its take-no-prisoners approach to budget was due to widespread drugmakers, according to AARP. Kise advertising, alleging in recent spots opposition to Democratic policies on declined to provide details about that multiple Democrats have “betrayed issues affecting senior citizens. the group’s donors but said it is not seniors.” The journalistic research Web “We’ve never had this kind of threat taking money from the pharmaceutical site PolitiFact.com called the ads to seniors before,” Kise said. “We are industry. ■ “highly misleading” in describing the in unprecedented times, which calls funding outlook for Medicare. for unprecedented measures.”

An Integrated Curriculum For The Washington Post Newspaper In Education Program

Academic Content Standards

This lesson addresses academic content standards of Maryland, Virginia and the District of Columbia.

Maryland Virginia Washington, D.C.

Social Studies, Political Science: GOVT.1: The student will demonstrate Social Studies, Government: Students Analyze the methods used by mastery of the social studies skills evaluate issues regarding campaigns individuals and groups to shape responsible citizenship requires, for national, state and local elective governmental policy and actions including the ability to offices. c. Describe how political parties a) analyze primary and secondary 1. Analyze the origin, development and special interest groups source documents; and role of political parties, noting influence and change government b) create and interpret maps, those occasional periods in which policy, such as third parties, and diagrams, tables, charts, graphs, and there was only one major party or non-governmental organizations spreadsheets; were more than two major parties. d. Analyze the role of media c) analyze political cartoons, political (Elections and the Political Process, and public opinion in shaping advertisements, pictures, and other Grade 12, 12.6) government policy and action graphic media; (Standard 1, Topic B, Grade 7) d) distinguish between relevant and Social Studies, Government: Students irrelevant information; evaluate and take and defend Social Studies, Political Science: e) evaluate information for accuracy, positions on the influence of the Analyze the influence of individuals separating fact from opinion; media on American political life. and groups on shaping public policy 2. Describe the roles of broadcast, a. Analyze the influence of the media GOVT.6: The student will demonstrate print and electronic media, on political life, knowledge of local, state, and national including the Internet, as means b. Evaluate ways the citizens should elections by of communication in American use, monitor and influence the a) describing the organization, role, politics. formation and implementation of and constituencies of political 3. Explain how public officials use public policy, parties; the media to communicate with c. Examine the roles and functions c) examining campaign funding and the citizenry and to shape public of political parties in the American spending; opinion. (Elections and the Political system of government (Standard 1, d) analyzing the influence of media Process, Grade 12, 12.7) Topic B, Grade 8) coverage, campaign advertising, public opinion polls, and Internet- based communications on elections; h) evaluating the degree to which interest groups influence political life;

GOVT.7: The student will demonstrate knowledge of the organization and powers of the national government by c) examining the ways individuals and groups exert influence on the national government.

Standards of Learning currently in effect The Maryland Voluntary State Curriculum for Virginia Public Schools can be found Learning Standards for DCPS are found online Content Standards can be found online at http:// online at www.doe.virginia.gov/testing/sol/ at http://dcps.dc.gov/DCPS/In+the+ mdk12.org/assessments/vsc/index.html. standards_docs/index.shtml Classroom/What+Students+Are+Learning