At the risk of getting too basic...

[cthulu2016]

The problem with American politics is that human beings are influenced by television advertising.

Just reducing the thing to its core, here.

[laundry_queen]

1. That's it.

It's all about the marketing and the money to put it on TV. Nothing more nothing less.

[CJCRANE]

2. The problem is who pays for the advertising. nt

[Tierra_y_Libertad]

3. The problem with American politics is politicians.

"History has tried to teach us that we can't have good government under politicians.  Now, to go and stick one at the very head of government couldn’t be wise." Mark Twain

[hamsterjill]

4. I agree...but would also add

That so many of the "followers" are influenced by what they hear from the pulpit on Sunday morning. They hear it, they believe it, and that way they (themselves) don't have to THINK about it. They just follow, and feel justified in doing so by looking around at all of the other idiots who are doing the exact same damn thing!

[nenagh]

5. The Dems need a New Message:

To all those Americans who voted Republican... and are under the age of 54 years...

Look north: The Conservative Canadian govt recently changed the retirement age: Essentially if you are under 54 yrs old.. you get your retirement Old Age Security $$$ at age 67... If you are older than 55 yrs.. for the moment you are allowed to retire at age 65.

So, for Republicans under the age of 54 years, my message is simple: Join a health club or start exercising, eat well, choose a healthy lifestyle.

Because if you keep voting Republican... you too will retire at 67 years... and you are going to need that extra stamina to keep on working...

It's the Republican way...