The Larkin Column(s)

I've received a fair number of e-mails -- as well as calls at home -- about the series of columns I wrote recently about the resignation of a local state rep, Peter Larkin, who became a lobbyist with a Beacon Hill (and Capitol Hill) powerhouse lobbying shop, ML Strategies.

Let me be clear: Being described as a "powerhouse lobbying shop" should never, ever be considered a badge of honor. Quite the opposite. Big-money corporate lobbying is right at the dangerous nexus of money and access that's distorting our democracy and underming the very future of this country. I'm not using hyperbole; I'm dead serious.

That former Rep. Larkin could claim, as I quote in one of my columns, that lobbying is just "governing in another form" is one of the most outrageous things I've ever heard said by anyone about anything.

We need a pretty good number of democracy reforms in this country, and on that list has got to be literally closing the door on high-priced lobbyists -- especially those who are also carrying campaign donations in the pockets of their $1,000 suits. Otherwise, money will continue to increase its power over votes, and any chance of holding back the rising tide of plutocracy will be lost.