theQuestion: Should ‘special interests’ be considered a dirty phrase in politics?*
Petr is both right and wrong when it comes to what “special interests” mean in the world of politics. Special interest groups do indeed influence government policy, but singling out only those interests you disagree with and deeming the process inglorious is half-sighted.
“Special interests” is not a dirty phrase. Granted there are some that are particularly offensive. But to disavow their right to lobby would undermine the rights of those more amenable to one’s political leanings.
Plainly, while democracy provides each person one vote, it is not a system designed to make everyone equal. There are winners and losers in democracies, and once all the votes are counted the winners hold sway. The special interest groups more aligned with the winners do get more access. In turn, it’s a little harder for those on the losing end to get their voices heard.
Even so, there are plenty of examples of interests once considered marginal becoming mainstream. Environmentalism started out as a movement on the fringe. Through grassroots organizing, education and ceaseless pressure on government, the movement gained legitimacy and influence over policy. Certainly, at countless forums and summits the environmental lobby has wined and dined politicians and government representatives. Nothing untoward there.
Likewise, for other legal lobbying efforts, including political donations.
Petr has a bee in his bonnet over money in politics, assailing its corruptive influence. Yet, he has it backwards as even government can be a special interest and its money is essential for influencing votes. Washington lawmakers are not locked in partisan conflict, unable to pass any meaningful legislation because of special interests, but as a result of the elimination of the earmark — the extraneous federal funding for projects in home districts tacked onto unrelated legislation. Hailed as a victory over wasteful spending and corruption, the move only increased polarization and gridlock. With nothing to horse trade, lawmakers have little to offer to secure hard-to-win votes.
In Canada, the jostling of special interests has come to define our politics as groups compete for grants, constitutional protections and economic polices to protect vulnerable industries. Whether it’s the advancement of aboriginal rights and workplace safety or protecting the auto industry in Ontario and the forest industry in B.C., it’s all special interest lobbying.
Special interest lobbying for industry or cause is the Canadian way.