Rep. Jim CooperNASHVILLE — U.S. Rep. Jim Cooper, D-Tenn., announced Monday he has become the first elected official this election cycle to pledge not to lobby once he leaves Congress.
The Nashville Democrat, who is seeking re-election to the House, said in a statement that “the power of money is overwhelming in Washington. I’ve said for years that Congress has become a farm league for K Street.”
Washington’s K Street, where many lobby firms have their offices, has become a symbol of lobbyists who seek special favors from Congress on behalf of their clients.
Cooper said “serving the public used to be considered the highest calling; now, many see it as a stepping stone to lucrative lobbying careers. I’m proud to be the first elected official this cycle to pledge not to lobby after I leave Congress, and I hope others will join me.”
Federal law already prohibits former congressmen and senators from lobbying for one year after leaving office.