Understanding how various political actors influence public policy outcomes and shape government decision-making processes
Different actors in the political system have varying levels of influence on policy outcomes
Presidents, governors, and mayors who implement policy, propose legislation, and use executive orders to shape government action.
High InfluenceSenators and representatives who write, debate, and pass laws that directly determine policy outcomes and government priorities.
High InfluenceJudges and justices who interpret laws, determine constitutionality, and set legal precedents that shape policy implementation.
High InfluenceParty organizations that recruit candidates, develop platforms, and coordinate policy agendas across different levels of government.
Medium InfluenceOrganizations like NCFC that lobby for specific policies, mobilize public opinion, and provide expertise to policymakers.
Medium InfluenceIndividual citizens who elect representatives, participate in referendums, and influence policy through public opinion.
Variable InfluencePolitical actors use various strategies and tools to shape public policy outcomes
Congress writes and passes laws, controls government spending, and regulates interstate commerce.
Presidents and governors can implement policy changes without legislative approval in certain areas.
Courts can overturn laws and executive actions that violate constitutional principles.
Legislators determine government spending priorities and can fund or defund programs.
Interest groups and corporations directly communicate with policymakers to advocate for specific positions.
Media campaigns and grassroots movements shape public sentiment, pressuring officials to act.
Financial support for candidates can influence policy positions and legislative priorities.
Actors form alliances to amplify their influence and build broader support for policy changes.
How we work with different political actors to advance education funding
Meet with both Democratic and Republican party members to discuss education system flaws and build bipartisan support for funding increases.
Target state-level representatives who have direct authority over education funding decisions and budget allocations.
Encourage parties to recruit and nominate candidates who support our education funding ideals, shaping future policy direction.
Real-world examples of how different political actors influence education policy outcomes
Governors can propose education budgets, create task forces on school funding, and use executive orders to implement education reforms. Their leadership sets the agenda for state education policy.
State legislators write education funding formulas, appropriate money for schools, and pass laws requiring minimum per-pupil spending. Their votes directly determine funding levels.
Courts have ruled that unequal school funding violates state constitutions, forcing legislatures to reform funding systems and increase support for underfunded districts.
Political parties can make education funding a platform priority, coordinate messaging across candidates, and use party discipline to pass comprehensive education reforms.
Political party members have significant influence over public policy outcomes because they can choose election candidates and shape the main ideas of government. By working with both Democratic and Republican parties, NCFC maximizes our ability to influence education funding policy regardless of which party controls government.