Put simply, the game is rigged | LETTER TO THE EDITOR


January 18, 2012 · 9:30 AM

To the editor:

If “we are the 99 percent,” then who are the 1 percent?

It’s about time we started calling them what they are: plutocrats.

“Plutocracy” is defined as government by a wealthy class that controls government, often from behind the scenes. It’s a form of government in which the wealthy exercise the preponderance of political power, whether directly or indirectly.  It’s a system of rule that is mostly by and for the rich.

Signing off his last broadcast in May, 2010, Bill Moyers observed that “Over the last

30 years the plutocrats have used their vastly increased wealth to ‘capture the flag,’ and assure that government does its bidding.”

He went on, “It hasn’t mattered which party has been in power, government has done its bidding. Don’t blame the lobbyists by the way, they’re simply the mules delivering the drug of choice to a political class addicted to cash — what polite circles call ‘campaign contributions’ and Tony Soprano would call ‘protection.’”

In fewer words, George Carlin put it simply: “The table is tilted folks. The game is rigged.”

STEVE BURR

Clinton

Comment on this story.

COMMENTING RULES: We encourage an open exchange of ideas in our online community, but we ask you to follow our guidelines for respecting community standards. In a nutshell, don't say anything you wouldn't want your mother to read. Please see our FAQ if you have questions or concerns about using Facebook to comment.

So keep your comments:

  • Civil
  • Smart
  • On-topic
  • Free of profanity

We ask that all participants own their words by logging in with their Facebook account. It's a simple process that will take seconds and helps keep our comments free of trolls, cranks, and “drive-by” commenters. We reserve the right to remove comments from anyone using screen names, pseudonyms or false identities. Please refer to our Terms of Use for full detail on participating on our site.