K street switching parties too?
This morning at TPM Josh notes that K street is working to get a slice of the bailout pie as well as pointing out that these Dem lobbying houses were not where one would turn for access in a GOP controlled admin. I agree that the positioning will be something to watch; however, some of the upheaval has begun.
According to a Politico article written 11/5, lobbying firms are preparing for a new administration by purchasing at least one traditionally Dem. lobbying house. BGR Holding, a dominant GOP firm, has purchased Westin Rinehart. The article claims the choice was due to, "close ties to the incoming administration". Unfortunately the article does not provide any specifics with regard to that claim. (Leave a comment if you find, or know of any connection between WR & the new admin.)
It would be natural to expect repositioning, pink slips & promotions after all, K street won't close just because O will soon be in the (People's) White House. At some point I expect that the change from GOP to Dem will get used against O as illustration that change was just a buzzword. I will watch closely, but try not to jump to conclusions either way, since I am inclined toward the "throw the bums out" idea. President-Elect Barack Obama (PEBO, that's how I think of him at the moment) has earned an opportunity to show his stuff. Boy, won't he have to be the world's best juggling tight-rope walker?!
If any begin to point to K st. I will be quick to remind myself what Barack has said on the subject:
*He will listen even when he disagrees.
*Lobbyist may have a seat at the table, but not buy every chair.
*Lobbyist will not drown out the voices of the People.
*Transparency will allow public participation; the public will decide who is doing the People's work.
*It won't be easy.
*It won't be fast.
As long as these maxims are are followed I'll allow myself to enjoy the ensuing K street chaos. There will be more muck to rake yet!
