The Role of Lobbyists in Utah Politics
A lobbyist works to influence policymakers. Lobbyists can work on a professional or volunteer basis. Every citizen that emails, texts, talks with or writes an elected official about an issue is a lobbyist. Good governance in Utah is based on good lobbying.
Professional lobbyists have a strong understanding of how Utah politics work. They are hired by groups to watch out for the political interests of the group. Most groups on both sides of the aisle use lobbyists. Groups that have budgets generally hire lobbyists. Groups that do not have lobbying budgets often use volunteer lobbyists. Volunteer lobbyists can have a strong understanding of how Utah politics work. Others might just be starting to learn about Utah politics.
Paid lobbyists, as a profession, tend to have a bad reputation. Much of that comes from the lobbyists in D.C. and the influence they are perceived to have over elected officials.
Utah has a system of part-time legislators with no paid staff. Therefore, for better or worse, lobbyists are an important part of the political system in Utah. Politicians rely on lobbyists, professional and volunteer, to help educate them on the elements of bills being considered. You can engage your legislator prior to or during the session. Legislators build relationships with lobbyists. Legislators learn who they can and who they can not trust. Trustworthy lobbyists are relied on far more than untrustworthy lobbyists.
Each of these roles in Utah government—from intern to volunteer to elected official to community organizer to lobbyist—are fluid. Many people move from one to another depending on demand, personal life, financial drivers, timing and passion. All roles are important parts of the moving pieces of Utah politics. Come be a part of the process.