You often get what you pay for. At&T, Verizon and Comcast certainly did. Take a look at these lobbying expenses totals. 

Telecom Lobbying Expenses

2009

Verizon Communications

$17,680,000.00

AT&T

$14,729,673.00

Comcast Corporation

$12,590,000.00

2010

Verizon Communications

$16,750,000.00

AT&T

$15,395,078.00

Comcast Corporation

$12,937,000.00