Yawper

The public does not have a right to know. Six times a year I file lobbying reports with New York State.  As a registered lobbyist in the state I have a legal obligation to disclose to the public what issues I advocate for, who my advocacy is directed at, and what I spend as a […]

There are two types of lobbyists, what I call “association” lobbyists and “contract” lobbyists.  There are also citizen advocates who are best understood as association lobbyists.  I hold the term “advocate,” as opposed to “lobbyist,” for those who seek to influence governmental decision making without getting paid.  This marks the professional counterpart, those who advocate […]

Lobbyists are not popular.  When people think of lobbyists they tend to think of Jack Abramoff – who served three and a half years on a conspiracy conviction.  In the popular mind the practice of lobbying and the influence of money seem as one. This is unfortunate. Lobbying and political money are closely linked, but […]