Yes, might as well be an edict.
But at least then, we would have already known we had no control. This way in this country, it's all a huge charade!, with the people under the illusion that they have a say. Forget it. What a joke. This is one time I'm glad I'm near 60 years old. If I were around 20 instead, and knew what I know, it would be a bigger bummer.