In the last few days, Ive met with representatives of 5 or 6 different groups. Many of those groups would be referred to as special interests--although special interests can range from unions to specific business areas, to specific issue groups (environmental to gun rights, etc.). Some of my meetings have been formal briefings--an effort to let senators-elect know whats going on in their interest domain; some have just been get to know us types of events, so that the new legislators will recognize the faces of the people who represent the groups. Healthy skepticism is required when dealing with any interest group, because they obviously have *their* interests at the forefront. That said, Ive found that discussions with these folks has helped me to think about some issues in a new way--not necessarily for their views or against them, but just differently. As a political scientist, Ive long wondered whether term limits wouldnt increase the influence of special interests. I suspect that it has, because Ive observed that many of the interest groups have staffs that have been around far longer than 8 years--some several decades. They have the advantage of a depth of understanding of issues that most senators wont have--especially not early on. My experience with all of the groups has been largely positive so far. No one has twisted my arm, no one has (yet) tried to get me to carry legislation for them (although Im sure that groups who believe that Im philosophically disposed to them, probably will). Mostly, it seems that the groups just want to have the opportunity to be heard, and I find that a positive thing. In a representative democracy, its important that representatives hear from constituents (and many of the interest groups have constituents from the district in in them), but also from all sides of an issue. I like to have information from as many points of view as possible before I make decisions--especially in areas of policy where I dont have any first hand knowledge, or experience.
Posted on: Sun, 14 Dec 2014 15:19:23 +0000
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