The Power of Lobbying: Defeating Bill Clinton's Healthcare Reform

This chapter explores the 1993 defeat of Bill Clinton's national healthcare reform plan by corporate lobbyists, particularly health insurance companies, showcasing the immense influence of lobbying over the presidency and Congress. It examines the evolution of lobbying tactics in Washington, from traditional methods to the modern 'outside game' approach, and discusses loopholes in lobbying disclosure laws that allow certain activities to go unregulated. The chapter also delves into the implications of lobbying on democracy, comparing the influence of business lobbyists to consumer groups, labor unions, and progressive organizations.