An iron triangle is a durable policymaking relationship where congressional committees, federal agencies, and interest groups work together to protect and advance their shared interests. Each side provides something the others need: committees get campaign contributions and expertise, agencies get budget approval and legislative backing, and interest groups get favorable legislation and implementation.
Iron triangles explain why certain policies persist despite public opposition and how concentrated interests can overcome diffuse public costs. They reveal the real power structures behind formal democratic processes.
Iron triangles explain why certain policies persist despite public opposition and how concentrated interests can overcome diffuse public costs. They reveal the real power structures behind formal democratic processes.