Blog #5

 Jack Abramoff is probably one of the most vilified lobbyists in American history.   What did he do that was unethical? What current laws/guidelines must lobbyists abide by now? How would our government function without lobbyists and special interest groups? Can lobbyists and the special interests they represent be a “good” thing if corruption is mitigated as much as possible? Explain. 

Abramoff pleaded guilty to conspiracy, fraud and tax evasion. He was sent to prison for six years but served 43 months before being released. Lobbyists must abide by the Lobby Disclosure Act that says who can and cannot lobby and that such interest’s groups must register with the federal government.  I believe the government would function without lobbyist by having a harder time having people influence a legislator which is complicated and helps influence the people and get things across that they want to get the outcome they want without lobbyist their wouldn’t be picking of the sides and no influence. Lobbyists and special interests can be a “good” thing if corruption was mitigated because it means people won’t be bought but instead won through truth instead of being bought and that can lead to problems later and people picking the wrong things because they just want money instead of actually knowing who they are promoting and what they are promoting.