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The article presents an examination into the political and media climate of non-mainstream activists in the United States. Details are given outlining how the mainstream journalism outlets hold to two differing standards of interest when covering established political officials and citizen activists. Discussion is then provided noting how activists often seek coverage but fail due to their accidental elimination of traits which are enticing to journalists because they seek to conform too much to the conventions of elected officials.

Previous research has shown that participation in voluntary associations, including those labeled nonpolitical, increases political participation. Using data gathered from 2,517 interviews for the American Citizen Participation Study, we complicate this understanding by exploring the relationship between voluntary association involvement and political activity in a more nuanced manner-separating association involvements according to the level of exposure to political dialogue and information, even within organizations typically considered apolitical. We find that the extent to which association involvement predicts political participation is dependent upon the level of political activity that transpires within these otherwise nonpolitical organizations. In order for participation in voluntary associations to lead to increases in political participation, participants must have exposure to political discourse. It is not the generic act of participation that supports political life but rather the opportunity to engage with politics that serves as an impetus for political activity. In light of this, we offer a critical exploration of existing federal tax policies governing nonprofit organizations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]