Emanuel on Lobby Reform: “Levels the Playing Field”

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, U.S. Representative Rahm Emanuel (IL-5) released the following statement as delivered on the House floor:

“Last year, we promised to break the link between lobbyists and legislators here in Washington and to fundamentally change the culture of corruption that had become accepted practice here.

“This new reform is on the door step of becoming law.

“Today we will pass this bill that fixes an institutional problem with an institutional solution.

“Our bill mandates unprecedented disclosure of lobbying activities and turns the spotlight on the special interests who have grown too comfortable with their special access.

“Most importantly: our legislation levels the playing field between the special interests and the voters.

“When the gavel comes down on the Speaker’s podium, it’s intended to open the People’s House, not the auction house.
 
“The American people, and not paid lobbyists on behalf of the special interests, should have access to their government 365 days a year.

“Election Day should not just be a formality. 

“Now, the Senate must do its work and pass this legislation.
 
“Americans have waited long enough for this Congress to pass real lobbying reform.

“It is time to turn this bill into law and give the American people a government as good as its people.”