The Orlando Sentinel
Lobbyists pay attention to politics
The most influential ones can command six-figure incomes as well
as politicians' futures.
by John Kennedy - Tallahassee Bureau
TALLAHASSEE - Lobbyists outnumber legislators 12-to-1, but only a
few can be counted among the Capitol's most influential movers and
shakers.
Some 2,100 corporations, organizations and industry groups will be
represented this spring by Florida's 1,900 registered legislative
lobbyists. Everyone from Boy Scouts of America to the Beer
Industry of Florida are represented. Artificial limb manufacturers
have a lobbyist. So do nude sunbathers.
But only the most powerful command six-figure salaries. They have
access to lawmakers and the big-money political contributions that
fuel election campaigns.
Some also represent trade or professional associations whose
members' voting power helps open legislative doors.
Either way, their thumbprints will be on much of the legislation
approved or killed this session. Here are some lobbyists to watch:
Jack Cory
A lobbyist for 25 years, Cory has been dubbed an ex-officio member
of the Broward County legislative delegation because of his close
ties to those lawmakers.
Cory continues to represent Fort Lauderdale-based Discovery
Cruises, along with greyhound breeders, health care companies and
waste management firms. His peers say Cory, 53, is among the
profession's hardest workers. Cory also is a successful
fund-raiser for lawmakers.
QUOTE: "Campaign contributions help, but they're only one finger
on the hand of getting things done." |
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