Lobbyist
An individual who is employed or retained by a client to make lobbying contacts on behalf of that client and who spends at least 20% of their time on lobbying activities for that client.
Understanding Lobbyist
Under the Lobbying Disclosure Act, a lobbyist is defined as any individual who is employed or retained by a client for financial or other compensation to perform services that include more than one lobbying contact, and whose lobbying activities constitute at least 20 percent of the time they spend on behalf of that client over a three-month period. Lobbyists must register with both the Secretary of the Senate and the Clerk of the House within 45 days of making their first lobbying contact or being employed to make such contacts. Registered lobbyists file quarterly activity reports disclosing the issues they lobbied on, the branches and agencies of government contacted, and the estimated lobbying expenditures. There are roughly 12,000 active registered lobbyists in Washington, D.C., though this number has declined from a peak of over 14,000 in 2007.
Many lobbyists are former members of Congress, former congressional staffers, or former executive branch officials who leverage their relationships and policy expertise. This movement between government and lobbying is known as the revolving door.
Related Glossary Terms
Lobbying
The act of attempting to influence government decisions, policies, or legislation by contacting elected officials, their staff, or executive branch officials.
Registered Lobbyist
A lobbyist who has formally registered with the Secretary of the Senate and Clerk of the House under the Lobbying Disclosure Act.
Revolving Door
The movement of individuals between positions in government (Congress, executive agencies, military) and jobs in the private sector lobbying industry.
Lobbying Firm
A company that employs lobbyists to represent clients before Congress and federal agencies, filing as a "registrant" under the LDA.
In-House Lobbyist
A lobbyist employed directly by an organization (corporation, trade association, or nonprofit) rather than by an external lobbying firm.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does lobbyist mean?
An individual who is employed or retained by a client to make lobbying contacts on behalf of that client and who spends at least 20% of their time on lobbying activities for that client.
Why is lobbyist important in lobbying?
Under the Lobbying Disclosure Act, a lobbyist is defined as any individual who is employed or retained by a client for financial or other compensation to perform services that include more than one lobbying contact, and whose lobbying activities constitute at least 20 percent of the time they spend ...