Lobbyist’s client base expands with the rise of Joe Negron

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The reality is that plenty of lobbyists in Tallahassee see their fortunes and bottom lines grow with a favorable relationship with leadership in the House or Senate, or the Governor.  A close relationship obviously means access to those leaders.  More access means more clients, higher fees, etc.  It is also not uncommon for those leaders to recommend certain lobbyists when asked by companies who they think are the better firms in town.

Responding when asked is one thing, but in some cases, legislators also inappropriately call companies and organizations to tell them it would be a great idea to hire their friends. This is where the practice gets murky. Is this the kind of relationship we want in Tallahassee?  A state lawmaker directing people to certain lobbyists?

The symbiotic game of lobbying and legislating in Tallahassee is sickening

Of course, this can work out well for all parties involved: The lobbyist gets hired, the legislator raises money from the lobbyist and the clients they represent, and the client gets the bills they want passed.  What a deal!  Everyone wins and everyone needs everyone else to do it. Ultimately, the lobbyist makes a lot of money, the client gets the policy they want and the legislator gets contributions needed to win re-election.