White House Gives in to Lobbyists

Lobbyists lobbied about lobbying and—surprise—they won. Under pressure for months, the White House has reversed its stance on banning officials from discussing stimulus projects with lobbyists. The Hill reports that "the just-revised rules will allow government personnel to accept meetings and calls from federally registered lobbyists on the implementation of stimulus projects." Back in March, Obama said lobbyist requests had to be made in writing and posted online within three days. "Lobbyists have said that the policy was one more example of the administration's disdain for their industry," according to The Hill. Under the new rules, online disclosure is still required and "lobbyists can talk to agency representatives only about logistical issues or general questions regarding stimulus grants."