Cable TV's Secret Channels of Influence

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If cable TV subscribers paid for just the channels they watch ("a la carte"), instead of paying a flat fee for channel packages, it would "jeopardize an economic model that has helped the industry maintain huge profits." The Center for Public Integrity reports on "a highly sophisticated lobbying campaign" by the cable industry to build anti-a la carte "astroturf." Some of the "seemingly disinterested third parties" opposing a la carte have received large donations and other benefits from cable companies. Time Warner lobbyist Leslie Harris worked "closely with Oxygen Media" to "organize over 30 prominent women's organizations"; civil rights groups and lawmakers have also taken anti-a la carte positions.