What Kind of Influence Do Lobbyists Have, and Do You Think It’s Fair? | Above the Noise

Explore the practice of lobbying and how lobbyists of all kinds seek to influence policy and policymakers. At its root, the goal of lobbying is to convince public officials to pass or oppose laws and other policies. Lobbying is protected by the First Amendment, and anyone can do it. In reality, 95 percent of lobbying in the United States is paid for by large corporations. But not all lobbying is about money. Other “currency” includes relationships and connections. If you’re still wondering how it works, watch the video, then decide what you think: What kind of influence do lobbyists have, and do you think it’s fair?

NOTE: Closed captions are also available in Spanish.