Ask A Tech-Savvy Lobbyist About The Politics Of Computing

Morgan Reed is a lobbyist in Washington, D.C. with the law firm of Venable, Baetjer, Howard & Civiletti. He has represented a wide range of clients, from the International Pizza Hut Franchise Holders Association (really) to the Telecommunications Industry Association and the National Association of Software and Service Companies (NASSCOM). That means he's paid to personally persuade (not to mention cajole and badger) lawmakers with real shoe-leather tactics, on issues that few lawmakers have the time to personally spend years learning about. He's also a Slashdot reader and Linux hacker, with work on the Linux Router Project (LEAF/ LRP). Morgan has volunteered to expand your knowledge about the intersection of technology and politics. Ask Morgan (one question per post, please) about how clueful politicians are when it comes to technology, what tactics are likely to impress your representatives to make intelligent tech-related decisions, and what you can do to steer the course of legislation which could affect your freedoms. We'll pass your questions on to Morgan, who will get back with answers shortly.

Comments

Bought and Paid For?

[cbowland]

With complex issues pitting Large Corporations with deep pockets against loose coalitions of groups of citizens without those same resources, do lobbyists such as yourself have an undue influence on the legislative process?

Re:My biggest concern these days

[Milkyman]

Perhaps email was not the best way, I was under the impression that most email is ignored and that if you really want SOMEONE to read it you should get out the pen and paper and write a real letter.