ABSTRACT
The right to lobby is guaranteed by the First Amendment of the Constitution, which states, “Congress shall make no law … abridging the freedom of speech or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble and to petition the government for redress of grievances.” People can also make demands and advocate specific public policy. Oneon-one contact with lawmakers or governmental officials is called direct lobbying and today is routinely conducted by paid professionals who represent corporations, trade associations, and other interest groups. Although lobbyists come in all political persuasions, many are lobbyists for hire by those who can afford them.
