In a recent article published by The Intercept, Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., sheds light on the alarming reality of America’s slide into plutocratic authoritarianism. With the passing of Trump’s megabill, Lee argues that the United States is witnessing the biggest wealth transfer in its history, fueled by the corrupting influence of money in politics.
The megabill, officially known as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, was signed into law by President Trump in December 2017. It promised to bring about economic growth and prosperity for all Americans. However, as Lee points out, the reality has been far from it. Instead, the bill has only served to further widen the gap between the rich and the poor, while lining the pockets of the already wealthy.
Lee highlights that the megabill’s biggest beneficiaries are corporations and the top 1% of the population. They have received massive tax cuts, while the middle and working classes have been left to bear the burden. This has resulted in a staggering $1.5 trillion increase in the national debt, which will ultimately be paid for by hardworking American taxpayers.
But the megabill is just one piece of the puzzle. Lee argues that the root cause of America’s slide into plutocratic authoritarianism lies in the corrupting influence of money in politics. The Supreme Court’s decision in Citizens United v. FEC, which allowed unlimited spending by corporations and unions in political campaigns, has opened the floodgates for wealthy donors to buy influence and control over our political system.
This has led to a government that is no longer of the people, by the people, and for the people. Instead, it is a government that serves the interests of the wealthy elite, at the expense of the majority of Americans. Lee points out that this is not a new phenomenon, but rather a continuation of a trend that has been growing for decades.
The consequences of this trend are dire. Lee argues that the erosion of democracy and the rise of plutocracy have resulted in policies that benefit the few at the expense of the many. This includes cuts to vital social programs, such as healthcare and education, while the wealthy continue to receive tax breaks and subsidies.
Furthermore, the influence of money in politics has also led to the erosion of civil liberties and human rights. Lee points out that marginalized communities, such as people of color and the LGBTQ+ community, are disproportionately affected by policies that are driven by the interests of the wealthy.
But Lee is not without hope. She believes that the American people have the power to reverse this trend and reclaim their democracy. She calls on citizens to demand accountability from their elected officials and to support candidates who reject corporate donations and prioritize the needs of the people.
Lee also highlights the importance of campaign finance reform, including overturning Citizens United and implementing public financing of elections. This would level the playing field and ensure that all voices are heard, not just those with deep pockets.
In conclusion, Rep. Summer Lee’s article serves as a wake-up call for all Americans. The passing of Trump’s megabill and the corrupting influence of money in politics are symptoms of a larger problem – the erosion of democracy and the rise of plutocracy. But it is not too late to reverse this trend. It is up to the American people to demand change and reclaim their democracy. As Lee says, “We must fight for a government that works for all of us, not just the wealthy few.”
