ABSTRACT
This chapter considers three topics: the players in policy development, the lifestyle of policy makers, and how people too can influence policy. Coalitions typically are composed of clusters of advocacy organizations that share common interests or political positions with the aim of developing strength in numbers in order to influence policy. The coalition is designed to bring diverse organizations together to lobby on national policies, promote grassroots activism, and educate the public. Members of a coalition may establish personal relationships with staff and members of Congress, which can contribute to success of a bill or other policy initiative. Party politics plays a significant role in members' policy decisions. Members rely on staff to track specific issues, write speeches, educate them on a range of topics, advise them on legislation and policy decisions, and write legislation. The autonomy and influence of a staffer depends on range of factors including their individual personalities, the structure of the office, and the members' style.
