U.S.: Number of Lobbyists, by year
YearNumber of lobbyists
202312,937
202212,665
202112,188
202011,532
201911,885
201811,645
201711,556
201611,205
201511,538
201411,792
201312,080
201212,170
201112,629
201012,927
200913,724
200814,130
200714,815
200614,489
200514,091
200413,213
200312,958
200212,140
200111,851
200012,533
  • Region: United States
  • Time period: 2000 to 2023
  • Published: Feb 2024

Data Analysis and Insights

Updated: Apr 14, 2024 | Published by: Statistico | About Us | Data sources

Trend of Increase in Number of Lobbyists Since 2016

The number of lobbyists in the U.S. has been on a steady rise from 11,205 in 2016 to 12,937 in 2023, marking a significant increase. This growth trend highlights an expanding influence industry over the past seven years.

Peak and Trough in Lobbyist Numbers

The data captures a peak in the number of lobbyists at 14,815 in 2007, followed by a decline to a low of 11,205 in 2016. This oscillation indicates shifts in regulatory or political landscapes influencing lobbying activities.

Recovery Post-2016 Decline

After hitting its lowest point in 2016, the lobbying industry has seen a recovery, with numbers climbing back up by 1,732 lobbyists by 2023. This rebound reflects a resurgence in lobbying efforts and perhaps a response to changing policy environments.

Comparison of Early 2000s to Recent Years

In the early 2000s, specifically from 2000 to 2003, the number of lobbyists increased from 12,533 to 12,958, showcasing a growth period. Comparing this to the latest data from 2020 to 2023, where numbers grew from 11,532 to 12,937, it is evident that the rate of increase has remained consistent over decades.

Decade of Decline Before 2016

The period from 2007 to 2016 marks a decade where the total number of lobbyists saw a decrease from 14,815 to 11,205. This decline may reflect broader economic conditions or regulatory changes affecting the lobbying sector.

Stabilization in the 2010s

The data from the 2010s, especially from 2010 to 2015, indicates a period of relative stabilization in the number of lobbyists, with figures fluctuating slightly but remaining around the 12,000 mark. This stability could suggest a period of adjustment in the lobbying industry to the post-financial crisis regulatory environment.

Notable Growth Post-Pandemic

Comparing the year before the COVID-19 pandemic (2019) with the latest data in 2023, there is a noticeable increase in the number of lobbyists from 11,885 to 12,937. This growth suggests an intensified lobbying activity in response to the pandemic and subsequent policy changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What was the peak and trough for the number of lobbyists in recent history?

The peak in the number of lobbyists was 14,815 in 2007, and the trough was 11,205 in 2016.

Terms and Definitions

A person or group seeking to influence politicians or public officials on a particular issue. Lobbyists can represent a range of interest groups, including businesses, labor unions, educational institutions, or non-profits.

The act of attempting to influence decisions made by officials in the government, most often legislators or members of regulatory agencies. Lobbying is conducted by many types of people, associations, organized groups, and advocacy groups to influence decisions.

Government bodies responsible for the control and supervision of specific activities or areas in a society. Lobbyists often try to influence these agencies to make decisions favoring their interest group.

An organization that is formed to represent and advance specific interests. These groups play a significant role in lobbying as they seek to influence public policy and decision-making.

A course of action or inaction decided upon by a political entity such as a government or regulatory agency, with regards to a particular issue. Lobbyists work to influence these policies in order to benefit the interests of those they represent.

Individuals who are part of a legislative body. In the U.S., this refers to members of Congress (House of Representatives and Senate). Lobbyists often communicate with these officials to influence public policy.
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Lobbying
Lobbying is the act of influencing decisions made by officials in the government, where lobbyist professionals use their resources and networks to sway public policy or funding decisions. Read more »