This study examines social movement interest groups (SMIGs) in the policymaking process. This dissertation offers a comprehensive analysis of the factors that both underpin and constitute the success of SMIGs in the policymaking process. It examines the opposing influences of political parties and the social movement as SMIGs attempt to achieve their policy goals through national level politics. The two cases employed in this study are the pro-life and gay rights movements and their relationship to the Republican and Democratic Parties, respectively.

This study asks if the nature of SMIGs fundamentally constrains these groups in the policymaking process. Specifically, to what extent is it necessary to compromise movement goals to work within the political process? Additionally, I explore factors that mitigate the need for compromise. Findings show that resources and the relationship to the party that accepts the social movement’s issue (its home party) can reduce the need for SMIGs to compromise movement goals as well as contribute to their success in the policymaking process. Findings are based on 42 in-depth interviews of associates from interest groups, politicians, and policy experts and content analysis of Democratic and Republican National Party platforms.