Boeckmann began at Galpin Motors as a salesman, working his way through college. A master of gimmicky showroom antics -- including a miniature circus, a King Tut exhibit, and a "Gucci" Thunderbird, complete with matching purse -- Boeckmann now owns what he claims is the world's largest car dealership. It is certainly the most politically active: Among individual dealerships whose political action committees, employees, or owners chipped in during the last election, Galpin Motors ranked first.

For years, Boeckmann has given to the National Automobile Dealers Association, a trade organization that contributes more than $2 million to federal candidates. NADA has made repeal of the estate tax a top priority, insisting that the public should collect nothing from inheritances worth millions. The tax certainly threatens to take a bite out of the Boeckmann fortune when Bert passes away: Family members Karl, Brad, and Beau Boeckmann all serve as vice presidents of Galpin Motors.

Another NADA priority is passing a bill that would allow dealers to avoid arbitration in disputes with manufacturers and seek financial compensation in court. Jane Boeckmann, the president and publisher of Valley Magazine, made contributions to Senate Majority Leader Trent Lott, whom NADA considers a "champion" of the measure. 

Known as the "first family of the San Fernando Valley," the Boeckmanns support conservative organizations like the Christian Coalition and the Parents Television Council. They also dabble in a variety of side businesses, including computerized language translation, motor home manufacturing, and California's largest commercial herd of buffalo.