How the US Became So Dysfunctional, Oligarchic, and Corrupt

 Why has the United States’ government become so politically dysfunctional? The nation was founded on principles of liberty and separation of powers, but now has a corrupt and oligarchic federal government. Originally, the US was based on limited government, natural rights, and popular sovereignty, differing from Old World nation-states.

Today, politics in the US appears to show endless conflict between factions of two main parties, coordinated by establishment media and social networks. Underlying this is an oligarchic government that benefits a small minority while the majority receives little aid amidst a crumbling infrastructure. In foreign policy, the US acts imperially, imposing its will through various means, often disregarding international law. The idea of US dominance began at the end of the Cold War but has deep historical roots, dating back to concepts like "Manifest Destiny. " Historically, the US pursued territorial expansion through questionable justifications, including conflicts with Mexico and the Philippines.

Washington's current policies go against the founding principles of the country due to the growing power of the federal government over the states. This shift began during important moments in US history, particularly during the drafting of the Constitution and the Civil War. The debate between Federalists and Anti-Federalists reflected concerns about the new Constitution granting too much power to the federal government. Anti-Federalists, including Thomas Jefferson, believed the Articles of Confederation better protected individual rights and state sovereignty.

Despite the Anti-Federalists' fears, its insistence led to the adoption of the Bill of Rights, ensuring Americans' rights against government overreach. They believed in the Compact Theory, which allowed states to nullify unconstitutional federal laws. However, the federal government's growth and actions soon undermined these protections, impacting both citizens and foreign nations. The Constitution does not explicitly permit acquiring new territories, leading to controversies like the Louisiana Purchase.

Interpretation issues, particularly between “living constitution” and “originalism," have allowed the federal government to expand its powers beyond constitutional limits. This shift led to significant federal laws and involvement in various aspects of life, contrasting the original intent of a limited federal government. The Civil War further diminished states’ powers, solidifying the federal government's dominance. The war's economic nature illustrated how the federal government moved against states' rights, particularly when President Lincoln prevented secession, directly contradicting the Constitution.

Lincoln's actions during the Civil War marked a pivotal moment, leading to an expanding federal government that would prioritize its power over the states. After the conflict, federal intervention increased in both domestic and foreign matters, reflecting a significant shift from the original vision of the founders. States became reliant on federal funds, now comprising a substantial portion of their budgets, contradicting the independence intended in the federal structure.

Lincoln's role has been venerated by the federal government, contrasting the perspective of many libertarians who see the need to reduce state power. Unlike European nations, where government structures have allowed for more representation, the US federal government operates with less accountability to the states. Ultimately, history shows that no document is foolproof against governmental power, highlighting the need for ongoing efforts to limit state overreach. Thus, the political action of libertarians focuses not only on strict constitutional adherence but also on reducing state power wherever it has become excessive. 

https://mises.org/mises-wire/how-us-became-so-dysfunctional-oligarchic-and-corrupt