LOBBYING: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT IS NOT

January 24, 2006

Anyone involved in the legislative process learns very quickly that the integrity of the system rests on the judgment of those who work within it—be they lawmakers, congressional staff or lobbyists.  But the Abramoff scandal and related stories being reported by the media call into question both the system and the judgment of those who participate in it.

Like the general public, those of us who work at CRD Associates are troubled by reports of influence-peddling, misuse of the public trust and outright criminal activities.  We are also conscious of the image this projects to our valued clients and to those with whom we share a trusting relationship.  Since our credibility, our worth and our reputation are our stock in trade, we think it is important to clear up some misconceptions and reiterate how our firm and each of its members conduct business.  

First and foremost, lobbying is an integral part of our country's democratic process.  Whether it is done by a constituent meeting with his or her elected officials, or through a paid professional, petitioning Congress is a constitutionally guaranteed right.

At the same time, we take very seriously our obligation to act always in the highest ethical and moral manner, when interacting with our clients and when representing their interests before government officials.  Towards fulfilling that obligation, each member of our firm is well-versed in the rules and guidelines governing our profession.  Each of us is registered pursuant to the Lobby Disclosure Act of 1995, and we file reports twice annually in compliance with that Act.  But we recognize that something technically within the rules may be unethical all the same.  That is why each member of our team follows a code of ethics we helped to develop through the American League of Lobbyists, including the responsibility to act with honesty and integrity when communicating with public officials. 

(See http://www.alldc.org/ethicscode.htm  to review the elements of that code of ethics.)

To help ensure that lobbyists, especially those who are new to this profession, fully understand their obligations, we helped launch a new lobbying certification program in conjunction with George Mason University's New Century College.   This project is the culmination of months of planning and analysis, and is already being heralded as a valuable introduction to American government relations knowledge and practices. 

How will the current scandal affect the way we conduct our business?  Whatever reforms are put into place, our firm will comply fully, as it always has.  Beyond that, we do not expect any change to the way we represent our clients' interests.  Lawmakers more than ever will rely on policy expertise and compelling arguments to make an informed judgment—something that we have emphasized throughout the 26 years CRD Associates has been in business. 

If you have any questions or concerns, or would like more information, please do not hesitate to contact us through this web site or by calling 202.546.4732.