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Core Viewpoint - Traditional lobbying methods have become ineffective under the Trump administration, which emphasizes grassroots voices and social media influencers over established lobbying networks [1][11]. Group 1: Changes in Lobbying Dynamics - The Trump administration has led to a significant turnover in regulatory agency leadership, disrupting established relationships that companies previously relied on [1][8]. - Companies are now competing to engage lobbyists who have insider knowledge of the Trump administration, particularly those who held key positions during his first term [1][3]. Group 2: Notable Lobbying Firms - Ballard Partners, founded by Brian Ballard, is a prominent lobbying firm known for its close ties to Trump and Republican leaders, having opened a Washington office in 2017 [3]. - The firm's lobbying revenue surged over threefold in Q1 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching approximately $14 million (about 2 billion yen) [3]. Group 3: Clientele and Demand for Lobbying Services - Ballard Partners' client list includes major companies like Palantir Technologies, Disney, and Mitsubishi Corporation, indicating a diverse range of industries seeking lobbying support [5]. - Institutions like Harvard University and Nippon Steel have engaged Ballard for lobbying services, reflecting a growing demand from entities facing political challenges [6]. Group 4: The Nature of Effective Lobbying - Successful lobbying now requires establishing connections with winning political factions, as highlighted by Wendy Lee from Johns Hopkins University [8]. - The narrative that resonates with Trump is crucial; for instance, concerns about tariffs affecting his supporter base were pivotal in influencing policy decisions [11]. Group 5: Challenges and Limitations - Despite the potential for lobbying firms to influence policy, Trump has expressed disdain for being manipulated by lobbyists, indicating a complex relationship between politicians and lobbyists [9][10]. - The political landscape remains volatile, with companies eager to influence policy due to the significant impact of Trump's policies on their operations [12].