I heard a good argument with lobbying

[FreedomAngel82]

I can't remember where I heard this. I think it could've been on Malloy's show. But from what I remember the person said that there should be a specific day where lobbying groups could come in and see the appropriate people for their group and it all be out in the open. No more of this secret stuff like with Abramoff and other people with big bucks. That way we can all know what's going on. I'm still really mixed on lobbying myself and not quite sure what to think especially with all the corruption going on now with the Abramoff case. I remember on an episode of the "West Wing" they had a day like one of the first president's had where people could come in and talk to the president about their agenda's and concerns about issues and they would keep them in consideration. Maybe that could be the answer to lobbying. Instead of the president and his staff have it be with the Congress/Senate people.

[bluestateguy]

1. If I was in Congress I would refuse to meet with any lobbyists

Ever.

Of course, I'd only serve one term, so I'd never have to face all of the special interest groups I pissed off.

[wtmusic]

3. Lobbying can be insidious

that little old lady who wants to talk to you about Social Security could be a well-paid pharmco rep.

I'm afraid lobbying is here to stay.

[jobycom]

7. "Lobbying" is the only way most reps can learn about an issue.

A rep who has to vote on a farm bill involving research into boll weevil pesticides is unlikely to learn enough off the internet to make a good decision. Lobbyists for either side can highlight details of the bill a rep might not otherwise catch, like a well-worded clause that is in reality a pork boondoggle for someone, or an amendment that seems irrelevant at first but is really crucial to environmental control.

The issue isn't lobbying, it's campaign contributions and outright bribery disguised as lobbying. That's what needs to be regulated, and enforced where it is regulated. Without lobbiests from groups like the Sierra Club or animal rights groups, those issues would not even come to the attention of lawmakers.

[NanceGreggs]

9. I'd only serve one term ...

Screw you, BlueStateGuy -- I hereby nominate you for a second term, and you're running whether you like it or not!!!!!!

[wtmusic]

2. If we could just ban

private campaign contributions and any form of remuneration other than a rep's salary, quid pro quo would cease to exist. Lobbyists could lobby all they want, but they would have to get by on charm, good looks, and a persuasive argument.

[FreedomAngel82]

4. I just think all the corruption is awful

It's like money matters more than the citizen's and what's right/wrong. I'm glad people are talking about this story because people need to learn about all the corruption.

[wtmusic]

5. I hear you, FreedomAngel

they are doing everything they can to sweep it under the rug. When the Downing Street Memo story broke, I thought, "this is it. It's all over. Impeachment or at least investigation." But...nothing. :grr:

[DanCa]

6. I am a lobbyist

every year I lobby for parkinson's research and stem cell research. Guess that means that I am a bad monkey :sarcasam: :D: :toast: :beer:

[NanceGreggs]

8. There's a world of difference ...

... between people who lobby for ideas/organizations/funding that benefits the entire country (like a cure for diseases like Parkinson's would) and people who lobby for corporations that already have more money than God - but have to have MORE.

[DanCa]

10. yes i know I am just being playing full tonight :D

And I agree with you a hundred percent :D

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

11. "On the day of his daughter's wedding..."

[NanceGreggs]

12. Great reference!

Wonder if Abramoff's prized horse, Khartoum, is okay ...

[Mayberry Machiavelli]

13. Heh.