If this was the case I don't think we would see the corporate funding ratios running at an average of 4 to 1 margin for Bush. It really helps when you invite the lobbiests into the bill writing sessions. The corporations are just one more interest asking for attention at the political trough. They do have the money, but as long as people retain the ability to vote we still can out trump them.

Also regarding party facade, if you look into our history our political partys have made some dramatic decisions. (IE civil rights) One could say that our government might morph into something similar to what you are talking about, or even that it is in the process right now. In any case that is just one more reason to get involved.