The association sector spent 14 percent more on lobbying in the third quarter compared to the previous quarter, led by big spending at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, the American Beverage Association and the National Association of Manufacturers, CEO Update reported. (subscription)

Without those three associations however, lobbying at associations dropped 4.2 percent in the third quarter, CEO Update said.

The story was of interest because I report in this week's National Journal, (subscription) that activity was picking up on K Street for many hired guns during the third quarter. The trade association world doesn't seem to be sharing in that uptick in business yet.