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Protection for Sale

In: 40 Years of Research on Rent Seeking 2

Author

Listed:
  • Gene M. Grossman

    (Princeton University)

  • Elhanan Helpman

    (Tel Aviv University)

Abstract

We develop a model in which special- interest groups make political contributions in order to influence an incumbent government’s choice of trade policy. The interest groups bid for protection with their campaign support. Politicians maximize their own welfare, which depends on total contributions collected and on the welfare of voters. We study the structure of protection that emerges in the political equilibrium and the contributions by different lobbies that support the policy outcome. We also discuss why the lobbies may in some cases prefer to have the government use trade policy to transfer income, rather than more efficient means. (JEL F13, D72)

Suggested Citation

  • Gene M. Grossman & Elhanan Helpman, 2008. "Protection for Sale," Springer Books, in: Roger D. Congleton & Kai A. Konrad & Arye L. Hillman (ed.), 40 Years of Research on Rent Seeking 2, pages 131-148, Springer.
  • Handle: RePEc:spr:sprchp:978-3-540-79247-5_7
    DOI: 10.1007/978-3-540-79247-5_7
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    More about this item

    JEL classification:

    • F13 - International Economics - - Trade - - - Trade Policy; International Trade Organizations
    • D72 - Microeconomics - - Analysis of Collective Decision-Making - - - Political Processes: Rent-seeking, Lobbying, Elections, Legislatures, and Voting Behavior

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