For years, I’ve been under the (incorrect) assumption that the two primary powers in American politics are the Democratic and Republican parties. Dafydd ab Hugh points out that I’ve been sorely mislead – the real power in D.C. lies not in parties, but bureaucracies, and two in particular: State and Defense. The arc of a presidency depends not so much on his political affiliation, but which organization he listens to more, i.e.: Carter – State, Reagan – Defense, Bush 41 – State, Clinton – State, Bush 43 – Defense.
Everything has suddenly snapped into place. Wowsers. (Needless to say, read the whole thing.)
It All Makes Sense Now
Who is it who said something to the effect that bureacracies exist soley to ensure their existance?
And wasn’t it Ike who said “Beware of the milatary-industrial complex”…