The Federal Election Commission has released new online tool to research federal election spending
Political Lobbying articles on Democracy Chronicles
Political lobbying is a legal practice of petitioning the government enshrined in the Constitution but has been supersized in the modern era by well-financed lobbies having outsized impact on government decision making. Efforts to highlight and correct the oversized impact that the powerful few have over government will be highlighted in this section. Also see our sections on American democracy and Money Politics.
Supporting Election Reform: Lawrence Lessig For President
Money in elections reform to get boost into mainstream with Lawrence Lessig For President campaign
Prison Company Lobbyists Gaining Political Power
National embarrassment of prison company lobbyists with malign influence over government officials
How Much Power Does Koch Political Machine Have?
Current Presidential Primaries are providing more proof of the Koch Political Machine’s power
Super-PACs Now Essential to Presidential Candidates
With few limits or controls, Citizen United designed Super-PACs now essential in campaign arsenals
Iran Nuclear Deal Lobbying Takes Washington DC
Congress beset by lobbying groups opposed to Iran nuclear deal ahead of key votes to block progress
Silicon Valley Lobbyists Becoming Major Political Power
National politicians find that lure of big money from Silicon Valley lobbyists is irresistible
The Most Powerful Special Interest Groups in New Jersey
Using huge cash investments, top special interest groups hold New Jersey state government hostage
36 Year Old Woman is Power Behind Nebraska Throne
As a private citizen Jessica Moenning shines as unusual power behind Nebraska Governor Ricketts
Hollywood Lobbying Takes State Department by Storm
Latest revelations about the efforts of Hollywood lobbying groups to gain influence draw scorn