Abstract

His Biggest Takeover - How Murdoch Bought Washington

The article focuses on business tactics adopted by media baron Rupert Murdoch. Murdoch is just the sort of plutocrat (estimated wealth: $3.2 billion) who normally has an easy time winning favors in Washington. Yet lobbying for News Corporation is not always an easy job, because he is a man with many enemies. "They start in the hole because Murdoch comes with a reputation," says a key Congressional staffer who asked to remain unidentified. Former Connecticut senator Lowell Weicker put the case somewhat more forcefully a few years ago when he described Murdoch as the industry's "number-one dirtbag." INSETS: Fox in cow barn, by Steve Wilson;`Bringing down the barriers', by Arthur Kent;The world stage, by Richard Masur;Extra winnings, by Larry Gelbart