" Far from trying to rig the system, I have spent decades opposing cronyism and all political favors, including mandates, subsidies and protective tariffs – even when we benefit from them. "
- Charles Koch

In essence, Charles Koch is expressing his long-standing commitment to opposing political favoritism and corruption within the system. He emphasizes that he has actively worked against practices such as mandates, subsidies, and protective tariffs for decades, regardless of whether these measures would have benefited him or his business interests.

The deeper meaning of this statement reflects a broader critique of the influence of special interests on politics and economics. Koch argues that while many individuals and businesses might seek advantages through political connections and regulations designed to protect their industries, he has consistently stood against such practices. By doing so, he suggests that true competition and fairness in the market can be maintained only when all players operate under the same rules without undue influence from politicians or other powerful entities. This perspective underscores a principled approach to business ethics and governance that prioritizes transparency and equity over personal gain.

Charles Koch is an American businessman and philanthropist known for his leadership of the multinational conglomerate Koch Industries, one of the largest privately owned companies in the United States. Beyond his role as a corporate leader, he has been vocal about political and social issues, often advocating for limited government intervention and free-market principles. His public statements on these topics reflect a philosophy that aligns closely with libertarian thought and have made him a prominent figure in both business and policy discussions.