Problem: Are interest groups a corrupting influence on the American political process (i.e. do they corrupt members of congress with open/hidden bribes, favors, helpful information, stock tips etc)? Why/why not? Ross Perot once famously said that he would love to abolish interest groups. How do you feel about that? Is that idea democratic? Make sure to explain what interest groups are, what they do, who they influence and why and whether the founders wanted them to be so powerful. Is there any way to limit their power without violating the 1st amendment?