I would not discount the influence of their lobbying efforts. The Koch's helped to drag the debate so far to the right that even the Democrats look like a cons

I would not discount the influence of their lobbying efforts. The Koch's helped to drag the debate so far to the right that even the Democrats look like a conservative party. Perhaps their money won't buy them the party they want - but it certainly will kibosh any talk of significant tax increases on the wealthy, or single payer health care. (disclaimer: I am from Canada - so an outside observer of US politics).