Its spending overshadowed by conservative advocacy groups funded by the Koch Industries, the pro-business Club for Growth is expressing interest in being “aligned” with the Kochs, potentially creating an even more influential force in the 2016 elections.
“I have been a big fan of what Charles and David [Koch] have created as a great influence on the Republican Party and, frankly, I think they can take the fair amount of credit for getting the Republican majorities,” said David McIntosh, president of the Club for Growth.
While the Club for Growth generally tries to influence the GOP primary process, helping economically focused candidates win, Koch assistance has generally flowed in general elections. But that may be changing as Koch eyes primaries, too.
That opens a door for parallel, or possibly combined, efforts, suggested McIntosh at a recent Christian Science Monitor breakfast.
“My hope is that they like what they see with the Club. They know us. All indication from the folks that I know there are that they do like what we do,” McIntosh said. “Where we are aligned in the mission, we’re delighted to be working with them.”
Outside of helping fund the Club for Growth, however, insiders said that the two groups are not likely to officially join on any political projects for the 2016 election cycle.
Paul Bedard, the Washington Examiner’s “Washington Secrets” columnist, can be contacted at [email protected].
