Lobbying the Black Caucus, Legally

The NY Times has published a long, analytical piece explaining how the Black Caucus has "taken advantage of political finance laws" to amass large sums of money from corporations and labor unions. By donating not to the caucus' PAC but to its network of associated non-profits and charities, interest groups have garnered much political clout masked in philanthropy.

Interestingly, the caucus has spent more money on fancy galas, during which "lobbyists and executives who give to caucus charities get to mingle with lawmakers," than on scholarships for African-American children and young adults.

The article goes into extensive detail about specific interactions between caucus members and corporations. It is worth reading; it supplements our readings about campaign finance and primes our discussion on Congress and interest groups.