What does lobbying refer to?

Lobbying refers to the act of attempting to influence government officials and policymakers in order to shape legislation and decision-making that affects specific interests or causes. It involves direct interaction with lawmakers, providing them with information, arguments, and sometimes incentives to support a particular policy position or piece of legislation. This can be done by individuals, organizations, or specialized lobbyists who represent various interests, from corporations to non-profit organizations and advocacy groups. By engaging with government officials, lobbyists aim to promote their agendas and ensure that their viewpoints are considered in the policymaking process. The focus on influencing officials distinguishes lobbying from activities like voting campaigns or conducting research, which, while important, do not involve direct engagement with decision-makers in the same manner.