Koch Brothers doubling down on political involvement

Unfazed by big losses in 2012, the Koch brothers recently strategized about how to streamline their efforts

Published May 1, 2013 1:37PM (EDT)

Despite the overall failure of conservative Super PACS to sway the 2012 elections their way, the Koch Brothers are planning to double down on their efforts in the next election cycle.

The New York Times reports on the Kochs' recent conference in Palm Springs, Calif., during which the Kochs reportedly discussed strategy for the next election cycle:

They have not yet decided whether to intervene in Republican primaries, people involved in the discussions say. But the brothers want their network to play a bigger role in cultivating and promoting Republican candidates who hew to their vision of conservatism, emphasizing smaller government and deregulation more than immigration and social issues. They are also seeking closer control over groups within their network, purging or downgrading those that did not deliver last year and expanding financing for those that performed well.

Also in attendance at the conference were Republican superstars like Dr. Ben Carson, Nikki Haley, Ted Cruz, Rand Paul and John Kasich, the Times reports.


By Jillian Rayfield

Jillian Rayfield is an Assistant News Editor for Salon, focusing on politics. Follow her on Twitter at @jillrayfield or email her at jrayfield@salon.com.

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2012 Elections 2014 Elections David Koch Koch Brothers Super Pacs