We have a system that demonizes the poor, passively abuses children by withholding education & opportunity, wages war casually, denies healthcare to millions, tolerates systemic racism - but takes every care not to inconvenience those with 3 homes, a plane, 10 cars and 2 yachts.

We're a representative democracy (and also a republic).

Yes, I believe we're a representative democracy. People have fought long and hard to expand that franchise and the struggle continues. Demonizing the effort only serves to limit it, and cynicism is just an excuse for not helping.