A coalition of nonprofit groups is campaigning to exempt advocates for charities and social welfare organizations from the Obama administration’s ban on hiring lobbyists, The New York Times reports.

Critics say the ban, a product of Mr. Obama’s campaign-trail promises to change the nature of Washington politics, should distinguish between advocates for causes and lobbyists for moneyed interests. According to the Times, some senior administration officials privately agree, saying the rule effectively bars people who have lobbied for human rights, environmental, and other causes the president espouses.

But the White House has dismissed calls to ease the restriction. “You can’t have carve-outs for lobbyists you like and exclude those that you don’t,” said David Axelrod, a senior presidential adviser.

See The Chronicle’s article on the lobbying ban and how it affects charities.

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