WWNO skyline header graphic
Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Local Newscast
Hear the latest from the WWNO/WRKF Newsroom.

Lobbyist: The Art of Persuasion

Lobbyists are an integral part of the legislative process. But what do they actually do – besides stand around in the hallways and talk?

“We, as individuals, represent trade associations, companies, individual public groups. We’re their voice and their ears to keep them advised on their legislative issues.”

So says Randy Haynie, considered the “dean” of Louisiana lobbyists. A fixture at the Capitol since 1980, his clients include pharmaceutical companies, banks, Blueprint Louisiana, and the New Orleans Saints. He’s effective; credited with getting his client, Harrah’s, the land-based casino deal in New Orleans in the late 1990s.

Haynie works at his craft year-round, saying his job doesn’t start at the opening gavel, and does not end at sine die.

“We have to start our research early,” Haynie explains. “Most people don’t that many times, when a legislative issue reaches final vote here in the state capitol, it probably has been being worked on sometimes for two or three years in advance.”

Since the inception of term limits, much of his job includes teaching history.

“As we have legislators term out and we have new freshmen arrive, we’re having to explain to the legislators the history of why a bill was passed; what was the purpose; and then, why are we amending it today.”

I asked him about other lobbyists, including those who seem to have the most influence over the current legislature – the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry, and the Louisiana Family Forum. He was philosophical about their aggressive style.

“Over my 35 years, I have watched organizations become too powerful,” Haynie said, with a grimace. “And normally what happens? That cycles down, because it’s not a balance of power.”

Unlike LABI or LFF, you’ll rarely see Haynie testifying in committee. Instead, you’ll find him seated in the audience, texting updates to his clients: modern gadgetry, but old-school style lobbying. And you’ll spot him with lawmakers, having personal conversations in the halls.

Above all, Haynie believes in the system, and urges citizens to use their modern tools, emailing legislators their opinions on issues and bills.

“I’m a firm believer democracy works best when we have a lot of voices coming into the process.”

Copyright 2021 WRKF. To see more, visit WRKF.

Sue Lincoln is a veteran reporter in the political arena. Her radio experience began in the early ’80s, in “the other L-A” — Los Angeles.

👋 Looks like you could use more news. Sign up for our newsletters.

* indicates required
New Orleans Public Radio News
New Orleans Public Radio Info