Key Takeaways:
- Lobbying firms linked to President Trump report significant revenue increases in early 2025.
- Ballard Partners more than doubles its first-quarter revenue.
- Other firms, like Mercury Public Affairs and Miller Strategies, also see growth.
- Despite campaign promises, Trump’s administration appears to favor lobbyist interests.
- Lobbyists influence policy decisions, such as delaying Medicare drug negotiations.
- Former lobbyists hold key positions in the Trump administration.
Introduction:
Lobbying firms with ties to President Trump have seen a surge in business in early 2025. This trend raises questions about the influence of lobbyists on policy decisions. Despite Trump’s campaign vows to reduce lobbyist influence, his administration has shown significant support for their interests.
Ballard Partners’ Surge:
Ballard Partners, a lobbying firm led by a major Trump donor, reported $14 million in lobbying revenue in the first quarter of 2025. This is more than double the $6.2 million from the same period in 2024. Notable clients include JPMorgan Chase, Chevron, and Netflix. The firm’s ties to Trump include former employees like Attorney General Pam Bondi and White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles.
Other Firms Seeing Growth:
Mercury Public Affairs, where Susie Wiles previously worked, reported earning $5.1 million in the first quarter of 2025. Miller Strategies, known for its role in Trump’s campaign fundraising, reported $8.6 million, up from $12.6 million in 2024. These increases suggest a broader trend of lobbying firms benefiting from Trump’s administration.
Trump’s Campaign Promises vs. Reality:
During his campaign, Trump criticized lobbyists, promising to reduce their influence. However, his actions in office tell a different story. Recently, Trump signed an executive order delaying Medicare negotiations for prescription drugs after pressure from pharmaceutical lobbyists. This decision aligns with lobbyist interests rather than his campaign promises.
Influence on Policy Decisions:
Lobbyists have significantly influenced policy under Trump’s administration. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) removed data on dangerous chemical facilities after industry lobbyists intervened. This action followed substantial donations to Trump’s inauguration fund from companies like ExxonMobil and DuPont.
Examples of Lobbyist Influence:
The EPA, under Trump, has been led by Lynn Dekleva, a former lobbyist for the American Chemistry Council. Dekleva previously campaigned against regulating formaldehyde, a known carcinogen. Her position at the EPA allows her to approve new chemicals, raising ethical concerns about her dual role.
Former Lobbyists in Key Positions:
Trump’s administration includes several former lobbyists in influential roles. This creates potential conflicts of interest, as individuals with ties to corporate interests shape policy. The presence of these lobbyists underscores the administration’s cozy relationship with corporate sectors.
Conclusion:
The surge in lobbying business highlights the ongoing influence of lobbyists in politics. Despite campaign promises, Trump’s administration has shown favoritism towards corporate interests. As lobbying firms thrive, questions arise about the balance between public and corporate interests in policy-making.