Lobbyists still have huge access to the Obama administration, even after a pledge by the president to keep influence out of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., the Washington Post reports.
White House visitors logs show a steady stream of lobbyists visiting administration officials, with those with personal connections enjoying easier access, the Post reported. Democratic lobbyists were most common.
For example, Tony Podesta, a lobbyist and brother of former Obama aide John Podesta, visited 27 times since Obama took office, the Post reported. Bill Samuel, a lobbyist for the AFL-CIO, visited 50 times.
Obama has barred lobbyists from joining his administration and advisory boards in the executive branch, along with other measures designed to minimize outside influence on the White House.
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