While some might believe Florida politicians have a mind of their own, they aren't without their own influences in Tallahassee. Lobbyists, a growing and massively influential culture in Florida, make vast sums of money pushing their clients' agendas through national and statewide legislation.
Lobbying is one of the most -- if not the most -- lucrative professions in Florida politics.
At least four lobbying firms, Ballard Partners, Ronald L. Book PA, Southern Strategy Group and Capital City Consulting reported bringing in at least $1 million in each quarter of the year. Those lobbying firms can sometimes receive fees that top $100,000.
Beyond their revenues, lobbying groups clientele is far and wide -- including politicians, health care companies, major industries, local governments and other advocacy groups. Each lobbying client has its own interests that it will pay big bucks to see fulfilled. Clients of Floridas lobbyists reported this year spending some $120 million to lobbyists and state agencies in 2012 alone.
But the spending doesnt stop there -- that number can easily shoot up to nearly $200 million every year, and it has in the past.
Sunshine State News took a closer look at the influencers and the top 10 lobbying firms, both large and small, steering Florida politics. SSN will be covering them in a special feature next week on the ins and outs and who's who in Florida lobbying.
Reach Tampa-based reporter Allison Nielsen at allison@sunshinestatenews.com or follow her on Twitter at @AllisonNielsen.
