In America, the strategy of a regional or national corporation using dealerships, franchisees, employees, or other stakeholders to try to influence state & loca

In America, the strategy of a regional or national corporation using dealerships, franchisees, employees, or other stakeholders to try to influence state & local governments is at least as old as the automobile industry (>100 years). If not the railroad industry (>150 years). And the political meaning of "astroturf" dates back to 1985. I could hype disposable diapers as the "secret weapon" for modern parents. 99% of competent & experienced parents are quite familiar with them - how the h*ll is that "secret"? - but who cares about facts? "Secret weapon" sounds so cool to say!