Considered as bribery elsewhere in the world, lobbying is legitimate in the United States as long as lobbyists register themselves and report the purpose and amount of lobbying. To influence legislators and policymakers, it takes huge sums of money in the range from several thousands to millions of dollars. Hence, those with most money will have most influence to sway politicians.
American politics is heavily influenced by lobbying, slanted in favor of affluent elitists. Lobbying has influenced many aspects of American legal system and policies. For example, the tax system is full of corporate loopholes and US foreign policies are in favor of defending Israel largely because of heavy lobbying by special interest groups.
To look at lobbying statistics, go to opensecrets.org.
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