How Do Lobbying Groups Work?

[theBruiser500]

So say restaurants want to make a lobbying group to represent all the restaurant interests to the politicians. They get together and start contributing a little money from each company to the lobbying group. What would stop one company in the restaurant industry from not paying dues, but accepting the benefits that would come from a lobbying group for all restaurants? And, for that reason it seems like every company would just not join.

Another question about lobbying groups. How does a lobbying group actually apply pressure to a politician to adopt the lobbying groups platform?

[BCPVP]

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How does a lobbying group actually apply pressure to a politician to adopt the lobbying groups platform?

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$$$ and votes

[theweatherman]

the lobbying group gives apolitican money (which they need to get reelceted) In return the politician does what the group wants. If thegroup is unhappy they do not give any money next time and the politician does niot get reelected.

[lehighguy]

It's kinduv like OPEC. Sometimes they work togethor and drive up the price of oil and everyone benefits. Sometimes a few of its members cheat the quotas to make a little extra for themselves.

The effectiveness of communication and trust determines how likely a successful coalition is. The fewer players the more likely they can form an effective union. For instance, the farm industry has a few large players and they can form an effective lobby as a result.

[bobman0330]

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Another question about lobbying groups. How does a lobbying group actually apply pressure to a politician to adopt the lobbying groups platform?

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If you're less cynical, lobbyists try to educate lawmakers about the way proposed legislation will affect an industry and to suggest beneficial changes.