In: Economics
What does the term “revolving door” refer to in American politics and why is it considered to be a problem?
The term "revolving door" refers to the transfer of high-level workers from positions in the public sector to employment in the private sector and vice versa. The theory is that there is a revolving door between the two fields, as many lawmakers and officials become lobbyists and advisors for the companies they previously oversaw, and government positions linked to their previous private posts are obtained by other private business executives or lobbyists. In recent years, such instances have evolved with intensified lobbying activities in democracies and have contributed to controversy over the degree to which retired government officials are able to use ties established and expertise acquired in previous public service jobs to enrich themselves or be excessively active in influencing or watering down pending legislation