discussion question

Most bills that appear in front of state and national legislative bodies have been either written by or supported by various lobbying interests. Frequently, those efforts are opposed by individuals or other lobbying groups. Lobbying either an elected government official or those who enact policy, or even advocating for a particular cause, involves an act of attempting to influence leaders to create legislation or conduct an activity that will help a particular cause or organization. People who do lobbying are called lobbyists.

Prior to completing this discussion, review the article  Framing lobbying messages: Defining and communicating political issues persuasively  (McGrath, 2007). In this discussion, you will assume the role of a lobbyist or individual in opposition to the lobbyist. Find an issue of your choice (preferably one that either has not yet been addressed in the discussion forum or is awaiting an opposing point of view). In your initial post of 250 words, state your issue and position based on the first letter of your last name. Support your position using a minimum of two credible sources. Even though the provided descriptions are sparse, you are allowed reasonable freedom to suggest remedies or alternate perspectives on the issues raised in the videos. Your position must include support for any assertions you make.

Topic Elder Abuse

A-L: Lobbyist against elder abuse

M-Z: High school principal/families coping with aging, indigent family members.

A high school principal and his family live with his aging and perhaps schizophrenic mother. When the 91-year-old mother died, the detectives could hardly believe the deplorable condition of her emaciated, infected body. Watch  Elder Abuse: America’s Growing Crime (Links to an external site.) .

Topic: Teen Homelessness

A-L: Lobbyist against teen homelessness. Perhaps consider issues of public nuisance, delinquency, or the quality of life for those in communities where such homelessness is prevalent

M-Z: Tom.

We see Amy and Tom fight; she pushes Tom. She yells at him to get away from her and she stomps away. (Only watch the video segment from 17:57 – 25:16). Watch  Intervention #22 (Annie and Amy) (Links to an external site.) .

Topic: Those Receiving Social Assistance and the Working Poor

A-L: Lobbyist against those receiving social assistance and the working poor M-Z: Christine or Shawn. Christine and Shawn, both single parents and welfare recipients, share the hassles and the humiliation of food stamps and assistance. Policy makers “walk a mile” with the recipients in New Hampshire. Watch  Welfare Reform: Social Responsibility (Links to an external site.) .