Lobbying: what is it really, and will the scandal change anything?

• Author: Davila, Serena
• Position: Cases of tax evasion

Most of us have been forced to think about lobbying in more detail since the Jack Abramoff scandal broke. On January 3, Abramoff pled guilty to conspiracy, fraud and tax evasion. Prosecutors argued that he had used campaign contributions, lavish trips and meals to influence lawmakers and their aides. One Senate staffer commented to me that she would not be surprised if some staffers began to leave the Hill as a result of some Senate offices already putting into place certain lobbying reforms; other qualified staffers may be scared away by the prospect of stricter laws.

Following the Abramoff scandal, many Americans--including financial executives--who are already skeptical about politicians are left wondering whether politicians and lobbyists can ever be completely ethical or whether most will get caught in the web of greed, power and wealth. In my, perhaps optimistic view, there will always be those that are ethical lobbyists and in office for the right reasons.

So, what is lobbying? According to the online Wikipedia directory, the term is said to have originated during the presidency of Ulysses S. Grant, whose habit was to drink brandy and smoke cigarettes while relaxing in the lobby of the Willard Hotel, where he was often approached by those seeking favors.

The Federal Regulation of Lobbying Act, which became Title III of the Legislative Reorganization Act of 1946, defined a lobbyist as any person "who by himself, or through any agent or employee or other persons in any manner whatsoever, directly or indirectly, solicits, collects, or received money or any other thing of value to be used principally ... to influence, directly or indirectly, the passage or defeat of any legislation by the Congress of the United States." Lobbyists were required to file quarterly reports on funds received or spent. The Supreme Court later defined the legislation more narrowly and exempted certain groups from this definition.

Most know that lobbying somehow involves the famous "K Street" in Washington, and that lobbyists visit Capitol Hill offices to communicate their client's views to politicians and impact legislation.

Lobbyists can help the organization or individual that doesn't understand the Washington process or doesn't have the time or resources to work within it, especially organizations that aren't based in Washington. The U.S. Senate Web page explains that lobbyists provide key information to their clients about introducing a bill correctly and...