Check out the majorities Democrats needed under FDR and LBJ to get their agenda enacted into law: Congressional History from 1789 to 2000.
In 1979, Democrats had more of a majority in the House than the GOP had seats. In 1994, Clinton's party had a 7 seat lead in the Senate and an 82 seat majority in the House. Even with that, liberals did not get everything they wanted.
Then when the counter offer is submitted, you appear to be compromising by agreeing to less than was contained in your initial offer. However, the fact remains, you have still acheived your original goal.
With regard to the media, you couldn't be more correct. The illusion in our country is that gov't controls the media, when in fact, the gov't is little more than a franchise of the media (imo). Politicians are wholly dependent on the media for their politicial lifeblood- election + reelection. Should the media decide that you don't meet certain criteria they (media)have, then the subtle smear campaign begins.
The American media is now under the complete control of about 4 or 5 umbrella corporations, none of which, despite the illusion that FoxNews is to the contrary, believe that individual autonomy and local solutions are what is best for us. You want a conservative point of view, the media will decide who will represent that POV via who they hand pick as commentators or pundits. Those chosen, will still be proponents of centralized, big government solutions. Solutions which the media deem appropriate, not which is in the best interests of the individual or our country.
It is an ongoing, relentless propaganda campaign that cannot be countered as long as we think we have a choice because there are different names to the political parties.