Not trolling, but I truly do not understand the shock expressed by some of these representatives. How is that presumably educated men of disinction are surprised that systemic corruption infected the US?
Are we to be believe that we are so special, that our culture, government, founding principles & documents are so unique as to provide an unassailable bulwark? What, was Franklin wrong, and we didn't have to maintain vigilance to protect the republic?
No, the contrary is true, and the quoted sources well know it. Pride, ego, avarice, jealousy are all prime drivers that have proven over millennia to cause individuals/groups to violate sworn duties and corrupt stewardship of public affairs.
Our reaction shouldn't be shock, but rather determination to fix, repair and restore.
Indeed.