Congress and Diaspora Politics

Studies the impact of lobbying efforts by domestic ethnic groups and foreign governments on US policymaking.
Congress and Diaspora Politics examines the impact of lobbying efforts by domestic ethnic groups and foreign governments on US policymaking. Over time, the number and variety of ethnic groups have grown, and foreign governments have increasingly turned to professional lobbyists rather than relying on their diplomatic corps to cultivate relationships with Congress. The case studies presented here examine this new lobbying environment by focusing on Jewish American, Muslim American, and Cuban American interest groups as well as lobbying efforts by the governments of Turkey, Armenia, Mexico, and others. They explore the strategies, tactics, and resources utilized to impact policymaking. The volume also offers perspectives of those who have worked on both sides of the lobbying equation—“a view from K Street” (the lobbying side) and “a view from the Hill” (the congressional side). Finally, challenges lawmakers face when diaspora interests intersect with national interests are covered.
James A. Thurber is University Distinguished Professor of Government at American University and the editor of many books, including (with Jordan Tama) Rivals for Power, Sixth Edition: Presidential-Congressional Relations. Colton C. Campbell is Professor of National Security Strategy at the National War College. His many books include Congress and Civil-Military Relations (coedited with David P. Auerswald). David A. Dulio is Professor of Political Science at Oakland University and the author of many books, including For Better or Worse? How Political Consultants are Changing Elections in the United States, also published by SUNY Press.