It has been influenced by substantial media coverage of excesses on the part of some organizations relating to some issues. Lobbyists are all highly paid representatives of commercial interests. Lobbying is not necessary. Lost would be the ability to convey direct viewpoints to seated politicians and agency personnel when the need was immediate. The dialogue of the election process is a slow one indeed.
Lobbyists are covert.
Lobbying is public process. Politicians do not like lobbyists. They constitute a huge resource. No politician wants to see the process abused, but few do not appreciate its importance. It is difficult to become a lobbyist.