Record $4.2 Billion Spent on Federal Lobbying in 2023, Led by Health Industries

In 2023, interest groups set a new spending record on federal lobbying, totaling $4.2 billion, with the pharmaceutical and health products industries leading the expenditures. OpenSecrets, a D.C.-based nonprofit that monitors political finances, reported that health companies outspent other sectors, contributing over $739 million to federal lobbying efforts. This expenditure trend extends to state levels, a continuation from 2019.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce emerged as the highest spender in federal lobbying, allocating $69 million, followed by the National Association of Realtors at $52 million. Interestingly, both groups reduced their spending compared to 2022.

OpenSecrets highlighted a shift in lobbying focus to state lawmakers, particularly on contentious issues like abortion, guns, and gambling, due to congressional gridlock. State lobbying expenditures in 2023 were estimated at $1.4 billion, matching the 2015 figures but showing a decrease from the $1.8 billion peak in 2022.

The combined federal and state lobbying spending in 2023 amounted to $5.6 billion, slightly lower than the 2022 record of $5.9 billion. Since 2015, lobbyists at both levels have reported spending over $46 billion. OpenSecrets’ Executive Director, Hilary Braseth, described the cumulative $45 billion spent on lobbying as “staggering.” The organization has also introduced a new tool for the public to track federal and state lobbying expenditures.