lobby
noun
°An entryway or reception area; vestibule.
"I had to wait in the lobby for hours before seeing the doctor."
°A class or group of people who try to lobby or influence public officials; collectively, lobbyists.
"The influence of the tobacco lobby has decreased considerably in the US."
verb
°() To attempt to influence (a public official or decision-maker) in favor of a specific opinion or cause.
"For years, pro-life groups have continued to lobby hard for restrictions on abortion."