In this context, "public" refers to ordinary individuals who are not part of government institutions but play a crucial role in shaping public opinion through their involvement in civic activities such as voting, protesting, or engaging in discussions.
Related terms
Interest Groups: Organizations formed by individuals with shared interests to influence public policy through advocacy and collective action.
Media Outlets: Various channels or platforms (e.g., newspapers, television, radio, websites) that disseminate news and information to the general public.
Civic Engagement: Active participation of citizens in their communities and the political process, including voting, volunteering, or joining community organizations.