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That’s six lobbyists for each of the 535 members of the House and Senate, according to Senate records, and three times the number of people registered to lobby on defense. More than 1,500 organizations have health-care lobbyists, and about three more are signing up each day. Every one of the 10 biggest lobbying firms by revenue is involved in an effort that could affect 17 percent of the U.S. economy.
Now, really, out of you people who support Obama's plan - do you really think - given the documented influence of K Street on this legislation - that this is going to be a plan that befits the average american? Maybe you'll answer that it's better than our current system. If that's your argument, you'd better support it knowing full well that your argument will be weighed against the back-door deals already on record.The health-care industry also contributed $20.5 million to federal candidates and the political parties during the first six months of the year, according to the Center for Responsive Politics. Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, a Nevada Democrat who is up for re-election next year, received $382,400, more than any other lawmaker.
We need fewer hands in the till, not more.