Auctions Quote by Sibel Edmonds
“Get yourself a few ‘Dime a Dozen Generals,’ bid high in the ‘former statesmen lobby auction’, and put in your pocket one or two ‘ex-congressmen turned lobbyists’ who know the ropes when it comes to pocketing a few dozen who still serve.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Testimony before the Senate Intelligence Committee, 2012
The quote suggests leveraging political connections and former officials to gain influence and access in lobbying.
In simple terms: Use ex‑officials to navigate lobbying.
Key Takeaway
Hire experienced former officials for lobbying.
Themes
politics
influence
lobbying
Mood
cynical
critical
Type
political
strategic
When to use this quote
- government contracts
- policy advocacy
- campaign finance
- revolving door
- strategic hiring
Key Concepts
networking
patronage
corruption
Questions to Reflect On
- How do personal networks affect policy outcomes?
- What safeguards can reduce undue influence?
A Different Perspective
Reliance on personal ties can undermine transparency and fairness.
![“If you didn't auction the [CO2] permits, it would represent the largest corporate welfare program that has ever been enacted in the history of the United States. All of the evidence is that what would occur is that corporate profits would increase by approximately the value of the permits.” quote by Peter R. Orszag](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/45c/peter-r-orszag-82656_auctions_if-you-didn-t-auction-the-co2-permits-it_476302.jpg)
