Submitted by Diane Farsetta on
"With corporate and union donations banned by a new law, lawmakers are pressing lobbyists to raise campaign money," reports AP. Lobbyist-organized fundraisers must raise at least $10,000 "to lure a freshman lawmaker to one of their events," at least $15,000 for veteran members, and $50,000 for committee chairs. "We raise money for members of Congress because they become familiar with us as individuals and when you ask for time from them, they're more inclined to give it to you," said lobbyist Louis Dupart. Robert Walker of the Wexler & Walker lobbying firm lamented that "fund-raisers are becoming one of few ways lobbyists can see members of Congress," due to increased security measures at the Capitol.