Quote:
Originally Posted by MagnumPI
Actually, payments are defined separately, ergo, not a petition. That's legalese at it's worst. Moreover, if it's a protected right, then why is it defined separately from a bribe(legally)?
The government is a monopoly of force. It is funded through theft and extortion. Currying favor directly through bribery is in essence racketeering.
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I'm not sure I understand the first paragraph, but I'll take a shot at it. Bribery of a federal official is illegal. Paying a member of congress to vote for a certain outcome is a bribe and it is illegal. Former Rep Cunningham (R-CA) is in jail for accepting a bribe for his vote. That's a fair example. I'm sure without much effort we could find more.
Petitioning congress is a protected right in the constitution. Professional lobbyists are protected by that right. They can petition but cannot bribe. I admit that there are many times when that line seems awfully fine.
2. Government is [has] a monopoly of force.
True. That's by design and intent. At one time the states' armies were considered a balance against federal force. That issue was settled in 1865.
3. It is funded by theft and extortion.
I partially disagree (leaving aside the point that it is constitutionally sanctioned). It is funded by extortion, not theft.
4. Currying favor directly through bribery is in essence racketeering.
That's why it's illegal.