I share many of LLIII’s comments in #33.

I especially reflect on the history of political parties in California. The progressive movement at the turn of the 20th century was able to reduce the influence of the Southern Pacific Railroad in state politics by neutering the parties. Primaries allowed cross-filing and filing on BOTH parties tickets. Patronage was sharply reduced. The initiative from the May election made for even less power for parties. He was right about reapportionment as a way to let politicans pick their voters rather than voters pick their representatives.

I was heartened by his estimation that the ruling class represents on a third of the population while the Country Party represents two thirds. Here in the San Francisco Bay Area, that is a consolation!

The practical way forward to still not clear. The ruling class’ hold on power is strong and growing. They are attacking directly other potential power centers preemptively. For example small business people like car dealers. A political oppositon without resources is a weaker opposition. With the ruling class holding the power of the purse to subsidize their coalition, we face an uphill battle.

The future vision of America held by the ruling class reminds me so much of Aldous Huxley’s “Brave New World.” Remember, that was a dystopia.