Webster: <i>government characterized by specialization of functions, adherence to fixed rules, and a hierarchy of authority </i>
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America has ceased to be a republic because elected representatives systematically replaced our republic form of government with that of a bureaucracy.  It is not possible for our elected representatives to undo what they have done since the power to rule has shifted from them to the body of unelected officials whose tenure outlasts them and whose political power exceeds theirs.
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Since the presidency, supreme court and congress have no real power over the bureaucracy the only means by which America will turn from its new form of government is by revolution.  By the way, one of the bureaus that would have to be upended is the military bureau (dept of defense).  This implies that the revolution will only occur when the bureaus become too weak (having sucked the resources and life out of the people) to resist in any meaningful way.  This implies that we will be conquered by another world power - most likely an autocratic one - before the revolution can occur.
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It makes me sad to think such thoughts.  Someone please show me the flaw in my logic.  I would really like to be wrong on this one...
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Wait a second, doesn`t congress control the budget for the bureaucracy?  Is it possible that they might see the current deficit death spiral as an opportunity to do the unthinkable - cut the bureaucracy budgets and maybe abolish some altogether?  Is there hope?  Could we actually continue to exist as a sovereign people?  Hold on, I forgot that we have placed our hope in politicians.  Back to depression...