You will not believe what they're lobbying for now

Here's a number: $7 million. That's the amount Intuit and H&R Block poured into federal lobbying last year. Look, the timing on this is not subtle. That sum hit the books in the same year the IRS's Direct File pilot program — a free, government-run tax filing system — was effectively shut down. You're talking about companies that make their entire business model on you paying them to do something the government just proved it could offer for free. It’s a classic K Street play, right out of the playbook.

### What This Means for Washington, D.C.

This isn't just about your tax refund. It's about how things get done, or don't get done, around here.

* **The Power of Proximity:** These companies are headquartered elsewhere, but their influence operations are run right here. You can bet those conversations happened in the usual haunts — maybe over a power lunch at The Monocle, or a quiet drink at the Hay-Adams.

* **The Federal Election Commission:** While the FEC building on E Street handles the disclosure, the true story is in the impact. It's not illegal, it's just… effective.

* **Your Money:** Ultimately, this means less competition and potentially higher costs for you when it comes time to file. The system works as intended for some, not for others.

Follow the money. It tells you exactly who benefits and who pays. And in this town, it’s rarely the same group. This is the particular energy of a Senate roll call vote applied to your wallet. It's why the Capitol looks busy at 6 AM, even when the halls are empty. Someone's always working the angles.

Jackson Cole, MiTL Sports Desk, Washington, D.C.

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