newsobserver.com projects - Why underreport lobbying income? - Comments

Re: Why underreport lobbying income?

BitterEXdemocrat — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 21:25:39 -0400

NC Democrackkks: MORE CORRUPTION WITHOUT INTERRUPTION!

taking orders for this as a bumpersticker...want one?

Re: Why underreport lobbying income?

PaulTerrell — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 16:48:59 -0400

The underreporting is just further proof that this is a PAY to PLAY state. And who is and has been running this state? THE DEMOCRATS!

Let me be straight with everyone, a vote for a Democrat is a vote for corruption. And the continuing loss of jobs in this state belong again to the party in charge, DEMOCRATS!

Why underreport lobbying income?

ryanteaguebeckwith — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 14:33:32 -0400

Why would a lobbyist underreport?

Former top lobbyist Don Beason is being investigated by the N.C. Secretary of State for potentially underreporting his lobbying income.

That's led some Dome readers to ask why a lobbyist would do that.

Here are a few possible reasons:

EVERYONE DOES IT. Clients seek advice on political ads, who to support in elections and how to frame an issue for the public. Some of that is legitimately considered consulting.

TO HELP THE CLIENT. To much of the public, "lobbying" is a dirty word. If a lobbyist reported earning a lot, the client's opponents could use that as an attack.

COMPETITIVE SECRETS. If you told the state how much you earned for a given client, another firm could come in and offer to do the same job for less.

JUST BECAUSE. Some lobbyists make a career out of pushing the legal limits. If the state has a loophole that allows them to underreport, they're going to use it.

Have another theory? Post it below or e-mail dome@newsobserver.com.