3.0

credits

Average Course Rating

Lobbying is a constitutional right guaranteed under the First Amendment. It's also big business in Washington, D.C., as more than $4.2 billion was spent on these efforts during the first six months of 2023 alone. In fact, for many, the term “lobbying” conjures up an image of a shady character passing a cash-filled envelope to an elected official. The stereotype of lobbyists as greedy predators of the political system detracts from the efforts made by the tens of thousands of people, from lobbyists and concerned citizens alike, who come to Washington or attend Zoom meetings, every year to exercise their “Right to Petition” the government to make it more responsive and accountable to the people. This applied course provides students with a practical understanding of how to lobby Congress and the Executive Branch. The course also teaches students about “advocacy” efforts where a company, non-profit, trade association either reaches out to constituents of a specific U.S. House district or state to involve citizens in their efforts or hire unregistered public affairs firms employing campaign-styled tactics to persuade decision-makers to support their client’s positions. This course counts towards the Concentration in Political Communications.