How can Interest Groups be seen as Significant in the US Political System?

-Access Points: Separation of Power and Federalism make many Power Centres that Groups can Influence. Failing with one Institution doesn't mean Overall Failure - Different Parties control different places. -Weak Parties: Limited Power of Party Leaders, and limits to Party Unity, means Individual Politicians may be Persuaded instead of following the Party Line -Number & Frequency of Elections: The range of Elected Offices and Frequency of Congressional Elections gives Opportunities for Interest Groups to gain Influence -Rights Protections: SCOTUS alongside Constitutional Rights has protected Basic Group Methods like Freedom of Expression. Some Interest Group's aim are Enshrined in the Constitution