Final answer:
Corporations influence politics primarily through political contributions to PACs, lobbying, and funding campaigns. This substantial impact raises concerns about the balance of power in a democratic society. Corporate interests can also affect state economies and policies through their business demands and labor organizations' political activities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Corporations typically play a significant role in politics through various means. One of the primary methods is by contributing to political elections, with the Supreme Court ruling that such contributions by corporations and unions to Political Action Committees (PACs) cannot be limited as they are a form of free speech. This has led to concerns about the influence of money in politics and the potential for promoting an oligarchy where the ultra-wealthy and large corporations can elect candidates and influence policy through their spending power.
Corporations also exert influence through lobbying, advocating the interests of industries, and by providing funding for political campaigns which can sway policymakers. In addition, industries compete for favor by offering tax breaks and relaxing restrictions to attract corporations, which in turn impacts the state's economy and employment. Moreover, workplace groups such as professional organizations and unions lobby and pressure members to support political candidates and initiatives aligned with their goals.