Early last week it seemed like Congress wanted bipartisan lobby reform. Then, with the election of self-described “reformer” Rep. John Boehner (R-Oh.) to the post of House Majority Leader, it seemed that the solution to the problems from the numerous lobbyist-related scandals that wracked Congress in the last year was in danger. Now, the Republican House leadership remains enmeshed in scandal, and in the Senate, bickering rules the day. Neither chamber is addressing the issue with the necessary seriousness. Strict regulations must be put in place to stop improper influence of money in our national legislature.
To start with, Boehner has failed to show that he is a reformer. To the contrary, he currently lives in an apartment rented from a registered lobbyist, and he is also among the top 10 representatives who take advantage of privately funded junkets. One of his first actions upon assuming his leadership role was to stop a lobby reform bill proposed by House Speaker Dennis Hastert (R-Il.) and Rep. David Dreier (R-Ca.). Though the bill was imperfect, it was moving in the right direction.
Meanwhile, the Senate finds itself embroiled in political gamesmanship. Senators John McCain (R-Az.) and Barrack Obama (D-Il.) engaged in war of the words over what “bipartisan action” means, and who said what to whom in whose private meeting. In the end, the two apparently kissed and made up, but it’s worth noting that it was McCain’s famous temper that kicked off the spat. Hopefully, the man who took the lead in uncovering the worst of the Abramoff scandals will not be the one who stops the reforms that must come from them.
And what are these reforms? For one, to forbid all Congressional gifts from lobbyists. Second, take Obama’s advice and institute a nonpartisan, non-congressional ethics review panel made up of retired judges and members of Congress—Congress should not watch itself. Furthermore, ensure all privately funded travel is approved by this committee and make sure that all travel and meals are disclosed not only in a federal registry but also on individual members’ websites.
Increasing the waiting period between a staffer or member’s retirement and when they can register as a lobbyist would also prevent further abuse. Finally, we should make sure even the weaker strictures the House recently passed become law: no former members on the House floor or in the gym.
All these changes would make it harder for a lobbyist to sway a representative. But even if—and it is unlikely at best—this wish list comes true, we should look for campaign finance reform redux. Despite the best efforts of McCain-Feingold, it is still all too easy for moneyed interests to funnel cash to their favorite candidates’ campaign committees. But for now, let’s take one small step for honesty—and one giant leap for democracy—by passing lobby reform now.
