The Declaration of Independence says that government derives its powers from the consent of the governed.

It and the Constitution are, in my opinion, pretty remarkable documents - especially considering that they were drawn up by wealthy elites who believed that the "commoners" didn't have the capability and shouldn't have the privilege of governing themselves. I think the trifoliate arrangement ("separation of powers") is also quite sophisticated and pragmatic.

My perspective is that, though imperfect, the system wouldn't be half bad if it functioned according to the principles laid down in our founding documents. But we've got fatally greedy, obscenely wealthy, and irremediably psychopathic plutocrats in control who have dismantled the system and emasculated our domestic laws and international covenants. They seat people in office and appoint jurists who represent and serve their interests exclusively. These lackeys are bribed with money and other favors, so that there is no longer any accountability or oversight in government. It's analogous to a gang of unruly children with no adult present to say, "You cannot do that, and you will be punished if you persist!"

How do you pass a law that grants you the power to place American citizens in prison indefinitely without charge or trial? The Fourteenth Amendment unequivocally states that no American citizen can be deprived of life, liberty, or property without due process. No exceptions, no "unforeseen circumstances," no "special conditions." So, where is the Supreme Court to strike down this unconstitutional provision? Those heretics are busy depositing their bribe money.

All three branches of the government have become infested with psychopaths who are working for the 1%. That's why there is no longer any effective political discourse or legal recourse. You cannot vote, recall, or impeach this away. There is no official individual, group, or department left to say, "You can't do this, and you will be punished if you persist!"

Don't accuse me of advocating revolution. The complaint and its remedy are clearly specified in the Declaration of Independence: When the government no longer serves or represents the people, it should be abolished and another instituted in its place.