The administration has instructed personnel to focus their working hours on the American public rather than engaging with corporate influencers. The directive from Chief of Staff Stephen Miller requires White House Counsel approval for policy meetings with lobbyists and positions the Office of Public Liaison as the main gateway for outside groups. Several Republican lobbyists warned that the restriction could make shaping policy outcomes harder and might drive efforts to seek direct access to President Donald Trump. White House spokesperson Taylor Rogers defended the memo by asserting that staff must stay dedicated to advancing the America First platform.
Key points
Influencing the administration will likely become more challenging for lobbyists, potenti…: Influencing the administration will likely become more challenging for lobbyists, potentially encouraging outside interests to seek direct access to Donald Trump.
The new policy signals an ideological pivot away from the donor and corporate relationshi…: The new policy signals an ideological pivot away from the donor and corporate relationship-building favored by former chief of staff Susie Wiles.
Administration aides are directed to prioritize the president's America First agenda and…: Administration aides are directed to prioritize the president's America First agenda and the nation's working people over special interest groups.
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US President
Donald Trump’s new chief of staff, Stephen Miller, has moved to tighten access for lobbyists at the White House, requiring staff members to seek prior approval before meeting registered lobbyists on policy-related matters.
According to a memo issued by Miller’s office, White House staff must obtain clearance from the Office of White House Counsel before holding such meetings on the White House complex.
“No President in history has fought more relentlessly, selflessly or courageously for the American People than President Trump. Following his example, White House staff are expected to dedicate their time unwaveringly to the working people of the nation,” the memo said, as reported by Politico.
The new requirement applies to meetings with registered lobbyists concerning government policy. The Office of Public Liaison will continue to be the primary point of contact for engagement with outside stakeholders, the memo added.
The move marks a shift in how the Trump administration engages with Washington’s powerful lobbying industry, with Miller known for his ideological approach and limited interest in relationship-driven lobbying.
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