People who try to influence government decisions on behalf of wealthy people or organisations are called what?

• A. Activists
• B. Bureaucrats
• C. Lobbyists
• D. Politicians

Answer: (C)

Influencing government decisions on behalf of others is the job of a lobbyist. They represent the interests of wealthy individuals, companies, or organisations and try to sway policy, legislation, or regulation by meeting with lawmakers, providing information, and drafting submissions or policy briefs. The aim is to get decisions that favour their clients.

Activists focus on mobilising public opinion through campaigns and actions to bring about policy changes, not necessarily through paid, professional access to decision-makers. Bureaucrats are civil servants who implement laws and administer programs, while politicians are elected to make and decide policy. So the term that best describes those who try to influence government decisions for others is lobbyists.