revolving door

Definition

The practice of individuals moving between government positions and private sector jobs in industries they previously regulated or will soon lobby. Corruption that's technically legal and socially acceptable in Washington.

Example Usage

The former FDA commissioner joined a pharmaceutical company's board six months after leaving office—a classic revolving door maneuver.

Origin

Metaphor from rotating entrance doors, applied to government-industry movement in 1970s

Fun Fact

Studies show that revolving door lobbyists charge 20-30% more for their services than non-revolving door lobbyists, explicitly monetizing their government connections.

Source: Government ethics and lobbying regulation

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