Our Legislative and Executive branches have become stepping stones for wealth. Beginning with Willaim Hull in 1792, lobbyists have become an invasive species within our government, eroding the political process to benefit corporations and wealthy individuals. As new legislation has closed lobbying loopholes, some politicians have shifted their focus to a legal, albeit morally gray area, by conducting large stock trades on sectors managed by the very congressional committees on which they sit. New legislation is required to ensure the integrity of our political system.