Definition

The practice of attempting to influence legislators on behalf of special interests, conducted by professionals who get paid handsomely to take lawmakers to expensive dinners and explain why their client's interests perfectly align with the public good. Pure coincidence, really.

Example Usage

The pharmaceutical industry spent $300 million on lobbying last year, which totally didn't influence any drug pricing legislation.

Origin

From the lobby of the Willard Hotel in Washington D.C., where influence-seekers would wait to buttonhole lawmakers

Fun Fact

There are approximately 12,000 registered federal lobbyists in Washington, D.C.—roughly 22 for every member of Congress.

Source: Government relations and advocacy

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