In our political system, money is power. And that means a few can have a lot more power than the rest. That's bad news for everyone else - and for our democracy itself.
Interpretation
Money heavily influences political power, leading to unequal representation in democracy.
This quote by Al Franken reflects the concerning reality of modern politics where financial resources can dictate the level of influence an individual or group has over the political landscape. It suggests that when money holds significant sway, the voices and needs of the general populace are often overshadowed, undermining the principles of democracy and equality that are meant to govern society.
In practice
In a speech about the influence of lobbying in politics, one might say, 'As Al Franken pointed out, in our political system, money is power.'
Veterans report that service dogs help break their isolation. People will often avert their eyes when they see a wounded veteran. But when the veteran has a dog, the same people will come up and say, 'Hi' to pet the dog and then strike up a conversation.
To ask whether the mainstream media has a conservative or liberal bias is like asking whether al-Qaida uses too much oil in their hummus. It's - I think they might use too much oil in their hummus - but it's the wrong question.
The institutions that we've built up over the years to protect our individual privacy rights from the government don't apply to the private sector. The Fourth Amendment doesn't apply to corporations. The Freedom of Information Act doesn't apply to Silicon Valley. And you can't impeach Google if it breaks its 'Don't be evil' campaign pledge.
Iβve never understood why we would want to deny all the joys - and the challenges - of marriage to anyone. Which is why I think any loving, committed couple β gay or straight β should be able to get married.
Nixon had the unique ability to make his enemies seem honorable, and we developed a keen sense of fraternity. Some of my best friends have hated Nixon all their lives. My mother hates Nixon, my son hates Nixon, I hate Nixon, and this hatred has brought us together.
Politicians are the same all over. They promise to build bridges even when there are no rivers.
Politics: the art of appearing candid and completely open while concealing as much as possible.
I think our democracy has it exactly right: two terms, eight years. It's enough. Because it's important to have one foot in reality when you have access to this kind of power.
Our public life withers when only the most extreme voices get attention. Most of all, democracy breaks down when the average person feels their voice doesn't matter; that the system is rigged in favor of the rich or the powerful or some narrow interest.
Bad officials are the ones elected by good citizens who do not vote.
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