How Microsoft Conquered Washington: After the Justice Department filed its antitrust suit in 1998, Microsoft–a company famous for its disdain of government–undertook the largest government affairs makeover in corporate history. The company now boasts one of the most dominating, multifaceted, and sophisticated influence machines around, one that spends tens of millions a year.
I find this pretty frightening. I don’t like the idea of any company wielding that kind of influence over politicians. I know that means I’m hopelessly naive. So be it. At least I’m honest.