A tightly integrated, mutually supportive arrangement exists between a congressional committee, an executive agency, and an outside interest group. This tripartite relationship is formed to create self-serving policy. An example includes the Department of Veterans Affairs, the House and Senate committees on Veteran Affairs, and veterans’ organizations. Each element benefits from the others’ actions, potentially at the expense of the broader public good.
The significance of these arrangements lies in their capacity to influence policy outcomes. They provide a stable, persistent force in government, capable of shaping legislation and its implementation. Historically, such configurations have been observed across diverse policy areas, demonstrating a pervasive influence on governmental processes. These arrangements, when functioning effectively, can streamline policy processes, albeit with potential limitations in democratic participation and transparency.
