The concept of "the establishment" and "the elite" in American politics.

This excerpt from a Stack Exchange forum delves into the concept of "the establishment" and "the elite" in American politics. The author acknowledges the common perception that these groups, composed of influential but often unelected individuals, wield significant power and influence over policy decisions, particularly in foreign affairs. The writer explores the different interpretations of these terms: "the establishment" refers to the network of politically connected individuals and organizations that shape the political landscape, while "the elite" encompasses individuals with significant financial, political, and cultural influence. The discussion culminates in an analysis of recent American presidents, highlighting their wealth and connections, fueling the perception that political leadership is not a meritocracy but rather a domain dominated by a select few. The author acknowledges the complexity of these concepts and the difficulty in definitively proving the existence of a coordinated "establishment" or "elite" agenda, but the discussion ultimately emphasizes the significant role of money and influence in shaping American political discourse.