Should Lobbyists be able to "buy" politicians?
By w1z111
@w1z111 (985)
United States
March 6, 2007 1:16pm CST
We all know that big business lobbying is very huge in the American political system. Corporations spend millions (billions?) to lobby our political representatives for their own agendas, whereas the general public (who are really the ones who provide most of the votes to put these folks into office!) doesn't really get much say in most of it.
Oh, we can write to our Congress and House representatives but how good does it really do, unless there's a massive barrage all at once, from an obviously irate public about a certain "hot" issue?
Some states have enacted (or are currently working on) new laws which are designed to at least "limit" some of the "graft", but will these laws really make much difference? I cannot quite fathom how it can be ok to allow the status quo to continue, when we can see quite clearly that most of the laws and legislation that become highest priority are those which are sponsored by the biggest-money lobbyists.
Anyone else feel similarly? Or perhaps opposite?
Please share your thoughts!
Thanks.
1 person likes this
2 responses
@MrNiceGuy (4139)
• United States
8 Mar 07
I understand the idea, but really, are we supposed to ban companies or rich people from donating money in politicians? Isn't that their right? I understand the idea of the corporate politician, but dont you think the responsibility to the voter and reelection are important driving forces to connect the average Joe and the politicians?
@emeraldisle (13138)
• United States
6 Mar 07
I agree something needs to change. You have some things being enacted due to companies spending mega bucks to lobby the politicians but you also have the "do-gooders" who are striving to get things enacted to limit what others can do just because they feel it's either "bad for us" or "morally wrong". Our government was based on the belief that things are supposed to be based on what the majority wants, not just the ones who scream the loudest or pay out the most money. Right now it isn't the majority that is being heard or allowed to have a say. That is not what our country was founded on. It was the belief that we should all have a say and that the majority rules out, not just select few who have big mouths or deep pockets.
I'm not sure what is to be done except for the multitude to start screaming just as loud. If we don't start voicing our opinions in large numbers we will never be heard. We need to take back what should be ours in the first place and tell the government enough is enough.
