Oligarchy claim examined through state and local government lens
7 reported
A recent analysis suggests that claims about America being ruled by an oligarchy can be tested by examining state and local governments. The piece, published at The Free Press, notes that people typically interact more with state and local governments than with the federal government. It argues that most state and local government spending is driven by voter demand, not by billionaire or oligarchic voters. The analysis points out that major spending areas such as schools, roads, and Medicaid do not reflect the agendas of most billionaires. Medicaid dollars, for example, flow primarily to lower-income recipients, and many top doctors do not accept Medicaid patients. The piece concludes that looking at the state and local level suggests America, with some exceptions, is better governed than before.
What’s reported
The analysis asks whether claims about oligarchy also apply to state and local governments.
People typically interact more with state and local governments than with the federal government.
Most state and local government spending is driven by voter demand, not billionaire or oligarchic voters.
Major spending areas include schools, roads, and Medicaid.
Medicaid dollars flow particularly to lower-income recipients.
Many of the best doctors do not accept Medicaid patients.
The analysis suggests America is better governed than before, with some notable exceptions.
Sources: marginalrevolution.com
