Question

The primary way officials identify problems that public policy can address is by

Answer 1

The primary way officials identify problems that public policy can address is by listening to all the public interest groups present in the country. The public interest groups are mainly working with the common public and they are the closest to learning about the issues and the problems faced by the public. 

Answer 2

I believe the answer is 
by listening to all the public interest groups presented in the country.