Despite his vocal opposition to lobbying influence, Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown ranks among the most active senators in facilitating the movement of individuals between his office and lobbying firms, with 64 former staffers now lobbying for major corporations and interest groups.
Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio), a vocal critic of corporate lobbying, sits as one of the most prolific senators in facilitating the revolving door between his office and the lobbying industry. According to Legistorm's revolving door rankings, 64 individuals have lobbied before or after working for Brown's office, placing him tied for 15th all-time.
Among active senators, Brown ranks seventh, highlighting his significant involvement in the revolving door phenomenon. Notable companies and organizations being lobbied for by Brown's former staffers include TikTok, Planned Parenthood, ExxonMobil, and Kroger.
Top Democrat Brown's Hypocritical Embrace of Lobbyists While Criticizing Their Influence
Brown's history of employing former lobbyists in top roles further underscores his connection to the lobbying industry. His former chief of staff, James Heimbach, previously worked as a lobbyist for Bank of America and Cigna Corporation, the latter of which was sued by Ohio for allegedly inflating prescription drug costs through its pharmacy benefit management services.
Despite his public denunciation of lobbyists' influence, Brown has benefited from their expertise in his legislative pursuits. During the passage of the Inflation Reduction Act, Brown claimed to have "taken on corporate lobbyists," showcasing a duality in his stance on the issue.
Top Democrat Brown's Hypocritical Embrace of Lobbyists While Criticizing Their Influence
Brown's hypocrisy on lobbying influence extends beyond his personal actions. His website proclaims his "fight" against lobbyists throughout his career, while his campaign spokesperson attempts to deflect criticism by labeling his Republican opponent a mere tool of special interests.
However, Brown's support for bipartisan legislation aimed at curbing foreign lobbying and increasing disclosure requirements for foreign lobbyists stands in contrast to his facilitation of the domestic revolving door.
Top Democrat Brown's Hypocritical Embrace of Lobbyists While Criticizing Their Influence
The race between Brown and Republican challenger Bernie Moreno is expected to be competitive, with Republicans viewing it as a potential opportunity to gain control of the Senate. Brown's ties to the lobbying industry may prove to be a vulnerability as voters scrutinize his credibility on this issue.
Brown's embrace of lobbyists while criticizing their influence exposes a fundamental disconnect between his populist rhetoric and his actions as a legislator. His record highlights the complex and often contradictory dynamics of political power and the influence of money in Washington.
Top Democrat Brown's Hypocritical Embrace of Lobbyists While Criticizing Their Influence
