Most politicians get into the game as idealists. Then political realities force them to compromise over and over. And they think to themselves, "yeah so I had to take donations from a for-profit prison, but I won't be swayed. All it earns them is a chance to explain their position." But, nonetheless it has an influence. That's why it's done. Every donation an investment and business folk do not invest unless they see the profit.
But these injured idealists keep pushing along. Every now and then there is a little victory. And they try to savor those moments.
They try not to think too much about the gulf between what they say they want and what they will do. After all, one must stay in office to keep "doing good."
Naturally real idealists annoy them. They are so naive! These are the political realities and no one can change it.
That's how good dies.
With 1000 cuts.