Much has been - and will continue to be - written about the influence of money in politics, especially that of deep pocketed individuals with agendas. The Koch Brothers stand out from the crowd because of their aggressiveness.
Soon enough - in 2305 - we will discuss the Citizens United decision and its impact on the amount of money private individuals can spend on campaigns, but here's an interesting twist. The Koch Brothers reportedly plan to spend as much money as either of the major political parties on the next presidential election. Meaning that they effectively are establishing their own political party - or at least put themselves in a position where they can influence the candidates of either party they choose.
This news was leaked from a recent retreat held by the brothers that was attended by several potential 2016 candidates.
- Click here for the NYT article.
Soon enough - in 2305 - we will discuss the Citizens United decision and its impact on the amount of money private individuals can spend on campaigns, but here's an interesting twist. The Koch Brothers reportedly plan to spend as much money as either of the major political parties on the next presidential election. Meaning that they effectively are establishing their own political party - or at least put themselves in a position where they can influence the candidates of either party they choose.
This news was leaked from a recent retreat held by the brothers that was attended by several potential 2016 candidates.
- Click here for the NYT article.
“It’s no wonder the candidates show up when the Koch brothers call,” said David Axelrod, a former senior adviser to Mr. Obama. “That’s exponentially more money than any party organization will spend. In many ways, they have superseded the party.”
The group’s budget, disclosed by a conference attendee, reflects the rising ambition and expanded reach of the Koch operation, which has sought to distinguish itself from other outside groups by emphasizing the role of donors over consultants and political operatives.
While the Koch’s expansive network houses groups with discretely political functions — a data and analytics firm, a state-focused issue-advocacy group and affinity groups aimed at young voters and Hispanics — it also includes groups like Freedom Partners, a trade organization overseen by Koch advisers that plans the retreat and helps corral contributions; Americans for Prosperity, a national grass-roots group; and Concerned Veterans for America, which organizes conservative veterans
While almost no Republican Party leaders were invited to the Koch event, it has become a coveted invitation for the party’s rising stars, for whom the gathered billionaires and multimillionaires are a potential source of financing for campaigns and super PACs. Officials said this year’s conference was the largest ever.
At least five potential presidential candidates were invited this year, and four attended, including Gov. Scott Walker of Wisconsin. On Sunday evening, three of them — Senators Marco Rubio of Florida, Rand Paul of Kentucky and Ted Cruz of Texas — took part in a candidate forum on economic issues.
