What factors in my opinion of the Outfit in 2013...
7. Significant connections to politicians, judges, etc. seem based more on hearsay, innuendo, and speculation than anything else. Whatever influence is left seems to be grossly exaggerated by some.
I agree with everything but #7, but I admit the Outfit is very top heavy in this respect. And when the old-timers pass away, they will take their connections with them, and the corruption vacuum will be filled by criminals from other groups of other ethnicities, as well as some well-positioned Outfit people. Even if nothing changes, there is still enough there politically to sustain the organization for a few more decades.
