Saudi Lobbyists in D.C. Hunker Down After Khashoggi's Killing
- Five firms have quit as at least 18 appear to be staying put
- Saudi Arabia has spent $76.9 million lobbying over a decade
Mohammed bin Salman attends the Saudi Arabia - United States Partnership Meeting in Washington on March 23.
Photographer: Bandar Algaloud/Saudi Kingdom Council/Anadolu Agency via Getty images
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Saudi Arabia has been a windfall for Washington’s influence industry, but the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi has left K Street lobbying firms hunkered down and reassessing their ties to the kingdom.
Over the past decade, Washington lobbyists have raked in $76.9 million advocating for the Saudis on everything from nuclear power to fending off legislation that would leave the kingdom liable in lawsuits filed by family members of victims in the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.