Political Quotes

“a constant stream of headlines in recent weeks has opened the public's eye to the all too cozy relationship between lawmakers and professional lobbyists. Professional lobbyists have become a virtual ``back office'' for Congress, serving as travel agents, employment agencies and authors of legislation. We have had a debate on campaign finance reform that ultimately set the rules between donors and candidates. Now we need a similar debate and legislation on how to distance the People's House from the professional lobbyists on K Street. The gentleman from Massachusetts (Mr. Meehan), the gentleman from Maryland (Mr. Van Hollen) and I have drafted the Lobbying and Ethics Reform Act. Our bill creates a code of official conduct for congressmen; closes the revolving door by requiring former Members and staff to wait 2 years after they leave Congress before lobbying the institution; ends the practice of lobbyists serving as congressional travel agents by arranging lavish junkets for Members; and requires lobbyists to disclose their past connections, previous Hill employment and financial activities on a public database. Mr. Speaker, when that gavel goes down, it should open the People's House, not the auction house for special interests. Only through lobbying reform can we restore the integrity of the Congress and regain the public's trust. ____________________”