Can anyone explain to me why lobbying is legal? Aren’t public officials elected to vote in a manner that is in line with the values of their constituents? So it really shouldn’t matter who is lobbying for what, that politician is there to represent the fine people who got him or her into office.

Pharmaceutical companies have their lobbyists in full swing this week over a possible bill allowing prescription medicines to be imported from countries that are cheaper (a.k.a. countries who price prescriptions closer to the actual cost of manufacturing the drugs). Pharmaceutical companies were all behind Obama and his healthcare reform. “More Americans will have health insurance and be able to get prescription drugs? Hot Damn!” Now, these companies are concerned, and rightfully so, that they are going to be under-sold by Canadian, Japanese, and other importers.

The pharmaceutical industry thinks they are slick, or thinks we are stupid. They are presenting that they are just being advocates of quality control. They wouldn’t want any contaminated medications in this country. Well, Schering-Plough, I don’t either. That is why there are agencies in place to monitor food and other imported goods. I’m sure the FDA will do the same for foreign drugs.

I really don’t feel any sympathy for our domestic drug makers. I take Asthma medication every day. I have gone more months without my medicine than I care to count. My prescription costs $170 a month at my local pharmacy. In Canada, it is only $70. Even if it was marked up to $120 after its import and stocking costs, I still save $50. There is something terribly wrong with that picture.

Here’s an additional problem, I don’t have the pockets or connections to whisper in the right person’s ear to make sure I can afford my medication in the future. Referring back to my original question, why do I need a lobbyist to battle the lobbyists swaying the vote of the elected official I helped put in office?

Gotta love Democracy.