How much influence do the wealthiest Americans have over our democracy? Roger and Kevin sit down with political scientist and author Jeffery Winters to explore the arguments in his book, "The Blind Spot: How Oligarchs Dominate Our Democracy." Winters contends that a powerful elite shapes public policy and protects its interests through an extensive network of lawyers, lobbyists, consultants, and institutions he calls the "wealth defense industry."
The conversation examines how concentrated wealth can translate into political power, why many democratic systems struggle to address these imbalances, and what the consequences may be for civic participation and public trust. Winters also discusses the historical roots of oligarchic influence and whether meaningful reforms are possible in today's political landscape.
