Lobbyists

To exert direct pressure on legislators in Washington or in state capitals, a major interest group may employ a professional lobbyist. A lobbyist, generally a lawyer or former legislator, is someone who not only specializes in the interest he /she represents, but also possesses an insider’s view of the lawmaking process. Lobbyists work for interest groups by keeping them informed about proposed legislation and by talking to decision-makers about their group’s concerns.

The term lobbyist often has a negative connotation. Public officials and others sometimes resent lobbyists’ interference. Yet lobbyists fulfill vital functions. Besides voicing the concern of a special group in society, they fulfill important needs of decision-makers. Legislators and their staff frequently tern to lobbyists for valuable data they would otherwise have to gather themselves. During the committee stage in the legislative process, for instance, lobbyists are invited to appear before congressional committees to provide advice and information, albeit one-sided, which will help the committee make a decision.

While they are not mentioned in the Constitution, organized interest groups and their lobbyists play a significant role in American democracy. The political party system is another important part of the political scene which is not described in the Constitution.

Дата добавления: 2015-07-20