With imminent Republican takeover, lobbyists see an opening
WASHINGTON — The swamp is not being drained. Instead, it’s about to be restocked with a species that is used to running this town and taking advantage of nearly every opportunity: lobbyists.
Despite President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign vow to “drain the swamp” and “phase out” lobbyists, well-connected influencers are circling because, after years of gridlock, the skids are again being greased for action in a Republican-controlled capital. Something might actually get done in Washington.
Trump is pushing for a large infusion of spending on infrastructure. He wants to bulk up the military. Tax reform? That too. Sweeping changes to the health insurance industry? Yep.
And every issue draws a cadre of lobbyists, who had seen their number dip during the Obama years.
“The hoses are on,” said Steve Elmendorf, a top Democratic lobbyist. “The swamp is filling up.”
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