You're wrong, having political clout is a major win..I have an example.
As a teen a buddy and I got in trouble with the law.
We had to appear in front of a judge. My buddy tell me to just be cool it's been taken care of.
In the end we were fined $20, no jail, no probation.
Why you ask??
My buddy's uncle was asst. to the governor and the judge was told not to touch us.
I don't think your bro at az would have the clout..sorry you are wrong