Lobbyists are more likely than any other class of professional, I imagine, to contribute to congressional campaigns. Part of this, I’m sure, is an effort to win the attention of lawmakers, thus increase your chances of getting your calls returned.

But another reason lobbyists spend so much to elect their guys — if your ex-boss moves into the majority, and maybe gets a subcommittee, your value as a lobbyist goes up. And so does your pay.