Hey, "big serious grownup guy", I don't waste time attacking the half-functioning democracy we have now, which is, frankly, the best we've had since this nation was founded. I claim no special "political acumen" or well-thought out "solutions" but as much as that author writes, you would think she would spend a least a few articles suggesting solutions rather than, in everything I've read from her, merely attacking those who just might, if offered workable solutions, work on those solutions. Attacking those who might be able to help is no different than working for the enemy. And that's what you support? There is nothing progressive about working for the enemy by attacking from within. And if you don't understand the concept of 'civic responsibility' then there's nothing I, nor anyone else, can do to explain it to you. Did schools stop teaching about government and individual responsibilities? Did your parents not explain those common sense things to you? If you're that confused, try picking up a book and learn about those things.