Public affairs consultant David Payne believes that ______ is a euphemism for direct lobbying of policymakers to influence regulations or laws.

A) public affairs
B) political communication
C) government relations
D) free speech

Government relations is the term commonly used to refer to activities aimed at directly influencing policymakers and lawmakers in order to impact regulations or laws. The other options, such as public affairs and political communication, may include related activities, but they are not specifically focused on direct lobbying of government officials. Free speech is a broader concept related to the First Amendment of the U.S. Constitution and does not necessarily refer to lobbying activities.