Which of the following is NOT a method for the public to influence political decisions?

Attending private meetings is not generally considered a method for the public to influence political decisions because such meetings are typically exclusive and not open to the wider public. Public consultations, participation in elections, and petitions are all mechanisms that allow citizens to voice their opinions and influence political outcomes openly.

Public consultations engage citizens in discussions about policies or legislation, encouraging their input directly into the decision-making process. Participation in elections ensures that individuals have the opportunity to choose representatives whose policies and principles align with their own values. Petitions serve as a way for citizens to gather support for specific issues and present them to lawmakers, thereby amplifying their concerns on matters that are important to them. In contrast, private meetings are usually held behind closed doors, limiting public engagement and diminishing transparency in political processes.