Lobbying “Lobbying” is the activity of attempting to influence legislation by privately influencing legislators. It is the result and creation of…government [controlled] by pressure groups. Its methods range from mere social courtesies and cocktail party or luncheon “friendships” to favors, threats, bribes, blackmail.” --Ayn Rand, The Pull Peddlars --Ayn Rand, The Pull Peddlars What does the author of this quote think [opine] about people who “lobby?”

Question of the Day How do Lobbyists and Interest Groups affect the creation of legislation [laws]?

The Provocateurs of change How forces outside the government influence the making of laws

Interest Groups  Also called a pressure group, special interest, advocacy group or lobby group.  Any group of people with particular, specific interests.  Some examples include Business, Religion and Labor.

Motivation of Lobbyists Motivation of Lobbyists  Highly paid and skilled professionals.  Some claim to have strong beliefs and idealism.  In Washington, D.C. and state capitals these people are effective and ubiquitous [everywhere all the time like air] power brokers [someone who gives and receives, buys and sells power].

Tactics used by Lobbyists  Groups representing certain interests often speak [via phone or in person] to law makers.  Lobbyists sometimes pay [illegally] law makers to make certain decisions.

Effects of Lobbyists  Laws get passed and/or the climate government discussions change.  Sometimes that is good but, unfortunately, sometimes laws get broken.  The Effect: Citizens become disgusted with their leaders. Former member of the U.S. House of Representatives, Duke Cunningham, from California who received this mansion as gift from a weapons company in exchange for his vote on a government military spending project for their company. Former Lobbyist Jack Abramoff who was jailed for bribery and other charges related to illegal lobbying activities.

Test Question How can an interest group most effectively influence a legislator’s position on a bill under consideration? How can an interest group most effectively influence a legislator’s position on a bill under consideration? [a] air a commercial on television or radio [b] offer to collect money for legislator’s office [c] have group members call the legislator’s office [d] send letters to members of all constituents of that congressman

Sources  es/060501_lobbying.jpg es/060501_lobbying.jpg es/060501_lobbying.jpg  7/rayburn-lobbyist.jpg