I agree that it is most likely corruption. Our political/corporate elites have lost touch with the rest of us. They are post-American when it comes to their world view. And there appears to be no political price to pay.
The federal government controls 25% of our GDP and state, county, and local government another 20% or so. Crony capitalism has become predominant. There is a symbiotic relationship between the government and the corporate world--similar to what Ike warned us about re the military industrial complex.
Government can make or break an industry thru regulations and laws. In turn, corporations can influence those regulations and laws via political contributions. And the entrenched government bureaucracy thru public unions can make or break their political masters who are transient. It is no coincidence that the DC metro area is the richest in the nation and virtually unaffected by recessions and economic downturns.
In addition to money, the attraction to power and control motivates many of these politicians who think that the people work for them and not the other way around. Many probably detest the American public whom they view as just pawns and rubes who can be easily fooled and led. Until we start holding them accountable, I see little that will change their behavior. Obamacare was shoved down our throats and now they are using the same model for amnesty. You won't know what is in the bill until it is passed.
Thanks very much. I'm ready to start holding them accountable.