Whose Policy?

By Ian Cox

In my recent studies I came across a question that took me back: “Who actually decides government policy?”

I have to be honest, I’ve never looked deeply into the answer to this question. Digging in, thinking it over, and actually asking myself this question led me to some very powerful insights.

This is the United States of America, so my knee jerk response was “We the people,” of course! We elect representatives who vote on law and enact policy. If we don’t like what they do, we remove them, right? Well, currently just over 80% of federal incumbents are reelected even with around a 14% approval rating. This is the part that is seen. We get politically involved in issues and causes we really care about. We call our representatives, send our representatives letters and emails, and march on the capitol either in support or in protest.

The people have the most potential energy in setting policy, but we’re often found dormant. It’s usually too late to stop the momentum by the time most of the populace is aware of what is happening.

This brings us to that which is often not seen.

Qui bono?

Who benefits? Interest groups are what I found at the end of the money trail. The well organized and funded interest groups end up with most of the policy making power. They have the most successful lobbyists and broker the best deals.

The Dodd-Frank Act is a great example of the power of the auto industry. They won several special exemptions and treatment in the act. When Elon Musk’s new electric car hit the market nationwide many states passed legislation to make it illegal to sell Tesla vehicles. The auto industry united under a common purpose, funded and organized lobbyist groups to gain the benefits they wanted.

Why are interest groups so powerful in swaying policy?

Vigilance Is A Must!

When a single act of congress, the president, or judge can be your downfall, wouldn’t you protect your interests more effectively?  We the people are always in such a predicament, freedom is a fragile thing that requires much care and vigilant oversight.

Most of the kinetic energy of policy making is found within these interest groups. They understand if politicians want to win their election or ensure their reelection they must have a corner on the media market. That’s who wins. Interest groups “hire” politicians through support of their organization and by funding their campaign.

Potential Energy

Those who put forth the time and effort gain the greater reward. Wherever government is involved in business and day to day microeconomics, interest groups will be greatly involved in setting government policy.

As the case may be, who still holds the most potential energy for freedom?

Never before have the tools and information been so available to be informed and connected with local, state, and national government proceedings as it is today. More citizens demand more value of their vote, hold the line on excellence, and aren’t afraid to try a new representative until they get the one they actually want. If there isn’t approval, clean house!

More than interest group funded media must be studied for this to be successful, but aren’t your interests worth the investment?

Will you, America, become interested in your freedom again?

If you won’t, who is lobbying for you?

Whose policy will it be?