It’s a claim repeated so often that many people assume it must be true. But when you actually look at the numbers, the narrative collapses.

Foreign governments lobbying Washington are required to register their spending. In 2024, Japan spent roughly $50 million. Saudi Arabia spent about $44 million. China topped $30 million. South Korea spent $27 million, and Qatar nearly $19 million.

Israel? About $14 million. That places it well down the list, far from the heavy hitters shaping U.S. foreign policy.