Podcast appearances and mentions of Mark Meckler

Mark Meckler reacts to a big shakeup in his home state of Texas after Senator Cornyn was defeated in a primary race, but that wasn't President Trump's only victory last week. PLUS, is JD Vance being sidelined? All that and more on this week's episode of The BattleCry. Ask Mark Anything

There's no offseason for the self-governing citizen, and Mark Meckler knows that better than anyone. The Convention of States President reacts to last week's elections results, including Thomas Massie's stunning defeat and a BIG shakeup in Idaho that nobody's talking about. Then, he answers listener questions on cannabis and more. Ask Mark Anything Sign the Petition Open Letter to Trump

Are the new UFO document releases transparency or distraction? Mark Meckler weighs in on why President Trump won't accept a fake peace agreement and the real reason he's trying to defeat Congressman Massie. Plus, Mark shows off his breadth of knowledge by divulging some secrets to metabolic sovereignty as well as the AI tip of the week. Ask Mark Anything

Day Break | Free Speech, Free For All Friday --- 00:00 - Monologue 28:13 – Colonel Rob Maness, 32-year Air Force veteran and host of The Rob Maness Show. Maness discusses his new book What You Can Do About It, which focuses on combating corruption, radicalism, and moral decline in America. He outlines practical steps citizens can take to become more engaged and active in defending constitutional values. 38:26 - Monologue 47:21 – Mike Britton, Co-Founder of Artillery Tea. Britton discusses the origins of Artillery Tea Co. and introduces the company's Patriot Starter Kit. He explains what is included in the package, why it appeals to first-time customers, and how viewers can order at artilleryteaco.com. 57:37 – Rep. Tim Walberg, U.S. Representative for Michigan's 5th District. Walberg discusses the threat invasive species pose to Michigan's fisheries, waterways, and tourism economy. He explains why protecting natural resources is critical for the state's long-term economic health. 1:16:46 - Monologue 1:25:37 – Steve Dulan, professor and attorney. Dulan discusses debates surrounding Supreme Court expansion, constitutional interpretation, and Second Amendment rights. He explains why understanding the Constitution remains central to many current legal battles. 1:35:53 – Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States Action. Meckler discusses what he calls a hidden “ghost tax” that is increasing the cost of living for Americans. He explains how government spending, regulation, and inflation contribute to rising financial pressure on families. 1:44:44 – Ivey Gruber, President of the Michigan Talk Network. Gruber discusses work ethic, outdoor activity, and concerns that modern culture has become overly fearful and disconnected from nature. The conversation emphasizes the value of hard work, fresh air, and encouraging kids to spend more time outside. --- Check out our brand new podcast, 'Forgotten America'... Episode 14 is live NOW at Steve Gruber on YouTube! Link below: https://youtu.be/EE7zApiSWks

Full Show. Guests include Steve Schirripa, Mark Meckler, and Dan Hawkins

Mark Meckler covers the latest election news, including the earthquake decision in Virginia, Indiana finds out what time it is, and the outlook for the 2026 elections. PLUS, big victories for Convention of States in Tennessee and Missouri. 

Guest Mark Meckler, Convention of States, joins to discuss proper representation in government. Discussion of Convention of states and states holding federal government accountable, redistricting and gerrymandering, and more. More states push for national popular vote, should we be going the other direction? President Trump rounds off May day protests from last week by focusing on small business in the nation. Discussion of economic growth through small business, economic incentives, and more. 

4:20 pm: Walter E. Block, Eminent Scholar in Economics for the College of Business at Loyola University, joins the show for a conversation about his Washington Examiner piece about how President Trump is not starting a war with Iran, he's finishing a longstanding one.4:38 pm: Keith Koffler, Managing Editor of the Daily Signal, joins the program to discuss his piece describing his experience of being inside the ballroom at the White House Correspondents' Dinner when the shooting and commotion began Saturday night.6:05 pm: Collin Anderson, Executive Editor for the Washington Free Beacon, joins the show for a conversation about his piece profiling the man who attempted to assassinate President Trump during the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner on Saturday evening.6:38 pm: Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States, joins Rod and Greg to discuss the shooting at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, as well as why he says a ground game is necessary for the GOP to gain ground during the 2026 midterm election.

What could three members of Gen Z possibly have to offer on a topic such as statesmanship? Listen in and be encouraged, as Convention of States President interviews three current members of the Emerging Leaders Program. Learn More about a COS Internship

We're breaking down why real responsibility is the best teacher and how a program built on Socratic dialogue is shaping the next generation of American leaders. Mark Meckler interviews three interns in our Emerging Leaders Program to discuss the stuff they don't teach you in school: accountability, managing the "camera fear," and finding family in unexpected places. Apply for the Emerging Leaders Program

Mark Meckler has had enough of the hot takes and soundbites. That's why this week he's tossing aside his normal format to do deep dive into everything with the War in Iran. From the Great Reshuffling to modern warfare, diplomacy, and the American economy, this promises to be an informative discussion on President Trump's most controversial decision. Ask Mark Anything 

The President of Convention of States and Citizens for Self Governance wishes everyone a happy Easter. 

Today’s guest is Mark Meckler. He is the President of the Convention of States and [...]

A congresswoman's post on X about Convention of States went viral, but that's not the end of the story. Mark Meckler is back in the saddle, and he has plenty of things to say about primary season, strategy in Iran, a recent Catholic conference, and much more. Welcome to The Battlecry. Ask Mark Anything Sign the Petition Open Letter to Trump BattleCry Video Archives

Episode 229 This week Micheal & Dean do the news. There’s a treasure trove of stories…each one more terrible than the last. We hear from such darlings as Dale Partridge, William Wolfe & Mark Meckler. Their stories range from repealing the 19th amendment in the US & disenfranchising around half the population…that being women & […]

Joyce talks about:The Federal Reserve keeping rates steady despite the current state of the economy. Letting politics and view point dictate money policies. Hearings on the national security risk, serving as opportunities for legislators to get in front of the camera and air out personal political vendettas. Intelligence hid Chinese election meddling in 2020 due to hatred for President Trump. Opinions overriding common sense. WNBA trying to make a deal for salary increases. Mark Meckler joins the show to talk about the changes and progress RFK Jr. is making in the healthcare arena, and how many some lawmakers have been pushing back against his progress. Mark also talks about keeping the federal government out of the business of healthcare, state action, vaccines schedules, and the health of the American people becoming a political issue. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

The world looks very different from the way it did just last week. In this episode of The Narrative, Aaron and Mike explore the decisive US strikes in Iran that successfully took out key leaders of the regime. The guys break down why a Commander-in-Chief must act on intelligence to protect our sovereignty; if you don’t project strength, you invite chaos. They also celebrate that the Supreme Court recently stepped in to stop California schools from the heinous practice of transitioning children in secret. The Court made it clear that parents have the fundamental right to direct the upbringing and mental health of their own children, and that right is non-negotiable. Finally, Aaron, David, and Mike are joined by Mark Meckler, co-founder of Convention of States. With the national debt now soaring past $38 trillion, Mark explains why electing "better people" isn't enough to stop the administrative state. Discover the Article V strategy to impose term limits on the Deep State and fiscal restraints on DC. Ohio is a "watershed" state in this fight, and Mark shares the roadmap for how we can finally restrain a federal government that has grown far beyond its constitutional boundaries. More about Mark Meckler Mark Meckler is the co-founder of Convention of States (COS) and a leading authority on grassroots mobilization. A former attorney and tech entrepreneur, Mark applied his business expertise to help found the Tea Party Patriots before realizing that electing "better people" wasn't enough to fix a broken Washington. A committed Christian and advocate for traditional family values, Mark’s worldview is grounded in the belief that the administrative state is a structural threat to American sovereignty. His experience ranges from serving as the interim CEO of Parler to starting and selling multiple businesses in retail, restaurants, manufacturing, network marketing, technology, and consulting along with his wife of 31 years, Patty. Want to Go Deeper? On Saturday, April 11, Center for Christian Virtue will host our 2026 Columbus Celebration Gala. We're excited to welcome our keynote speaker, Scott Jennings, who is CNN's senior conservative voice and one of the sharpest commentators in the national spotlight. He's known for his clarity, conviction, and humor, and Scott brings decades of experience at the crossroads of politics and media, including serving in the George W. Bush White House and key roles in multiple presidential and Senate campaigns. It's going to be an elegant evening where you'll enjoy an incredible dinner followed by visionary keynotes exploring the path forward for the future of Ohio and America. Secure your table today at CCV.org/ColumbusGala.

The man behind the movement returns to COS at Home, reacting to President Trump's State of the Union, the victory in Kansas, and much more. Mark Meckler is the President and Co-Founder of Convention of States Action and Citizens for Self Governance. Grassroots Director Jonathan Viaud also shares the latest COS news, five minutes of Article V education, and reads viewer responses from the Minuteman Mailbag.

Mark Meckler reacts to a viral clip from the State of the Union and its important implications for the 2026 elections. Then, he dives into intriguing changes in Artificial Intelligence and the corporate media landscape, as well as an update on the latest from the Convention of States movement. NOTE: This episode was recorded prior to the campaign in Iran. Ask Mark Anything Open Letter to Trump Sign the Petition

Earlier today the Wyoming House Education Committee held a public hearing on SJ0005 (Convention of States Action's Article V Resolution). After opening remarks from volunteer State Director Julie Baker, COS President Mark Meckler gets to the bottomline. Then, Senator Ogden Driskill rounds out proponent testimony before the committee opens it up for other public remarks. After the vote, Rita Peters and Deanna Beckett provide a recap and reaction. Will Wyoming become state #21 to join the movement? COS LIVE Archives

If you've ever wondered what Convention of States is trying to accomplish or how Article V works, spend 30 minutes with three constitutional luminaries. In this introductory course, Dr. Tom Coburn covers "The D.C. Problem," constitutional attorney Rita Peters provides a helpful overview of "The Article V Solution," and Mark Meckler presents the inspiring "Vision of the Convention of States Plan." Sign up for more free classes with Convention of States University.

For this week's episode, Mark Meckler is handing the reins of The BattleCry over to Convention of States Co-Founder Michael Farris, J.D. Local Convention of States supporters rallied in Columbus, Ohio, inspired with talks by state legislators and local leaders before Farris takes the podium to deliver the case for COS like only he can. This event occurred October 2025.

Full show - Guests include Zak Andersen, Leo Delperdang, Curtis Houck, Dave Trabert, and Mark Meckler

Rick Santorum brings passion and truth to the South Dakota House State Affairs Committee in a public hearing of Convention of States Action's Article V application. After an introduction by the legislative sponsor, Santorum gives an invigorating argument for passing the resolution, followed by testimony from Shirlee Meier, who serves as the volunteer State Director in South Dakota. Following opposition testimony, Santorum then demonstrates his sharp knowledge on the subjects of federal overreach and Article V by rebutting the opponents and answering questions from state legislators. Unfortunately, the resolution was not adopted by a vote of 6-6. Rita Peters, Senior Vice President for Legislative Affairs, provides live reaction to the disappointing result and discusses next steps with Mark Meckler and Regional Director Deanna Becket, who were on the ground in Pierre.

Mark wants to call an Article V Convention of States as a way to bring power back to the states and the people, where it belongs.  Could this actually work?   https://conventionofstates.com/Church and State is brought to you by,  YOU!  Visit us at: https://churchandstate.media where you can support us by donating directly and find links to shop with our affiliates.Get our merch at https://standupnowapparel.com/partner-church-and-state/   Learn how to Protect Your Wealth against inflation at: www.BH-PM.com and tell them Church and State sent you.Support Church and State today by shopping at www.MyPillow.com using our coupon code: “CHURCHANDSTATE”.Our links are on link tree: https://linktr.ee/churchandstate                    Subscribe to our Locals Community (churchandstate1.locals.com)   Follow us on Rumble (@ChurchandState1776) https://rumble.com/user/ChurchandState1776    X(twitter) (@1churchandstate) https://x.com/1churchandstatefacebook (churchandstate1776) https://www.facebook.com/ChurchandState1776   Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/prepper-broadcasting-network--3295097/support.BECOME A SUPPORTER FOR AD FREE PODCASTS, EARLY ACCESS & TONS OF MEMBERS ONLY CONTENT!Red Beacon Ready OUR PREPAREDNESS SHOPThe Prepper's Medical Handbook Build Your Medical Cache – Welcome PBN FamilySupport PBN with a Donation Join the Prepper Broadcasting Network for expert insights on #Survival, #Prepping, #SelfReliance, #OffGridLiving, #Homesteading, #Homestead building, #SelfSufficiency, #Permaculture, #OffGrid solutions, and #SHTF preparedness. With diverse hosts and shows, get practical tips to thrive independently – subscribe now!Newsletter – Welcome PBN FamilyGet Your Free Copy of 50 MUST READ BOOKS TO SURVIVE DOOMSDAY

Mark Meckler comes guns blazing with a surprising new battlecry. Then, he reacts to a viral clip from NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani, provides an update on the latest Convention of States news, and answers your questions. Welcome to The BattleCry. Ask Mark Anything The Key to Unlock Constitutional Solutions

Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States, talks about headlines and discusses the growing momentum behind the Convention of States movement.

In this episode of John Solomon Reports, we celebrate a major victory for the Convention of States movement as Kansas becomes the 20th state to pass a resolution aimed at reining in federal power and spending. Joining us is Mark Meckler, the driving force behind this grassroots initiative and CEO of our parent company. He shares the inspiring journey that led to this historic moment, detailing the challenges faced over the past 13 years, including a significant legal battle that ultimately paved the way for this legislative success. Then, we tackle the pressing issue of social media's impact on children and adolescents. As technology continues to advance, the effects of social media on young minds have become a growing concern, with studies indicating detrimental effects on self-worth and mental health. We're joined by Annie Chestnut, a policy analyst at the Heritage Foundation, who sheds light on the addictive nature of social media platforms and the alarming statistics surrounding children's screen time. Finally, we welcome Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks from Iowa, who shares her insights on the historic passage of 12 appropriations bills in Congress. This milestone marks the first time in decades that Congress has successfully navigated regular order budgeting, ensuring transparency and accountability in government spending. Congresswoman Miller-Meeks emphasizes the importance of aligning budget priorities with the needs of constituents, a significant step toward preventing future government shutdowns.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Mark Meckler is back from a crazy week on the road for Convention of States, and he's got the inside scoop on the landslide victory in Kansas. But the winning didn't stop there. PLUS, Mark Meckler breaks down President Trump's trip to Davos and answers listener questions. Ask Mark Anything Give to Get to 34 States

In this episode of John Solomon Reports, we dive into the latest happenings in Congress and beyond, starting with an insightful conversation with Congressman Mark Harris. As a fresh face in Congress, Harris has already made a significant impact, advocating for budget cuts and accountability while navigating the political landscape with a gentlemanly demeanor. He provides a comprehensive update on the recent passage of 12 budget bills and discusses the ongoing challenges facing Congress, including Jack Smith's upcoming interrogation.Next, we turn our attention to a historic milestone in Kansas, where the state has become the 20th to pass a Convention of States resolution. Mark Meckler, the founder of the Convention of States movement and CEO of our parent company, joins us to share the remarkable journey that led to this achievement. After a 13-year campaign, Kansas has taken a crucial step towards reining in big government, and Meckler explains the implications for everyday taxpayers and the future of this movement.Finally, we discuss the recent March for Life in Washington D.C. with Father Frank Pavone, a prominent voice in the pro-life movement. He reflects on significant victories, including the Trump administration's decision to ban the use of fetal tissue obtained through elective abortions. Father Pavone makes a compelling case for why he believes President Trump is the most pro-life president in U.S. history, highlighting the ongoing efforts to protect life and the challenges that remain.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

On Thursday's Mark Levin Show, a candidate has every right to challenge election results, as President Trump did in 2020. Any candidate may legally question an election, claim it was stolen, or pursue alternate slates of electors - none of these actions are criminal. Jack Smith's criminal prosecution of Trump was a major assault on the Constitution and the Republic. Also, this Iranian regime needs to be decisively defeated. They have been slaughtering for over a half a century. Iran's Khamenei can be taken out without deploying U.S. ground troops.  Later, Phelim McAleer calls in to discuss his new verbatim play – October 7.  It is drawn directly from survivor testimonies of Israel's darkest day and is set to be staged at the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC on January 28, 2026.  Afterward, Mark Meckler, President of Convention of State, calls in to announce that the Kansas State legislature has become the 20th state to pass the Convention of States resolution.  Finally, Josh Hammer calls in to express concern over Israel possibly being cut out of the Board of Peace and Gaza reconstruction. The idea of allowing Muslim Brotherhood-linked actors like Qatar and Turkey to influence in Gaza's redevelopment is self-defeating. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On this week's BattleCry, Mark Meckler covers how President Trump is reshaping global politics and why it's a good thing for Americans. PLUS, he's going back on the road for Convention of States and has some intriguing updates.  Ask Mark Anything

On Friday's Mark Levin Show, ICE is the frontline protector against anarchy and civil society's destruction. The Democratic Party hates and seeks to destroy America by altering demographics through massive illegal immigration, including tens of millions of aliens and betting the Supreme Court won't properly rule on birthright citizenship. Democrats view immigration as a revolution, importing ideologies incompatible with Americanism, the Constitution, and rule of law, refusing assimilation in favor of conquest. Sanctuary cities and states shield these revolutionaries, creating segregated enclaves akin to a new form of segregation pushed by Democrats frustrated that the current citizenry won't align with their agenda, ultimately threatening all Americans. Also, Iran is one, big concentration camp. The Iranian regime is not hanging people because they are shooting them. Summary executions are, in fact, going on right now.  They are wiping out a generation of young people because they dared to want what young people in our country want -- freedom.  The lights are out and communications still cut off for a reason.  So, the rest of us cannot witness the genocide and atrocities that are taking place.  Hence, the Western media are losing interest and focus, as are a growing number of politicians.  But enough information is leaking out proving that the Iranian regime is an ongoing killing machine and the country is a killing field. Later, Mark Meckler from Convention of States, calls in and confirms that Kansas is on the precipice of becoming the 20th state to pass it. They need 34 states total, leaving 14 more. He also discusses the antisemitism from former friends like Tucker Carlson, Candace Owens, and Nick Fuentes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mark Meckler is ready to go to war in 2026. First, he reacts to the new global order that President Trump has wrought. And what is going on in Minneapolis? Join the grassroots organizer and Co-Founder of Convention of States for his weekly recap of news and responses to your questions. Ask Mark Anything

Rick Santorum, Senior Advisor to Convention of States Action, sits down with your host Mark Meckler at the Race to Freedom Leadership Summit in Indianapolis for an interview. They reflect on their memories of two late statesmen: Charlie Kirk and Dr. Tom Coburn. 

Mark Meckler, President of Convention of States Action, emcees COSA's emotional and inspiring 2025 Awards Banquet. After each Regional Director announces new Challenge Coins winners, the State Team of the Year and Volunteer of the Year are welcomed to the stage. Then, the first-ever John Adams Award is given to a special patriot. Throughout, Mark Meckler shares his heart for citizen patriots and why he continues to fight alongside them. This event was held September 2025.

In a special edition of The BattleCry, Mark Meckler turns the mic over to Convention of States Senior Advisor Rick Santorum. This recording is from a November 2025 event in which the former U.S. Senator spoke to to a packed room of activists and legislators in Annapolis before opening up the floor to questions. Santorum shares some of the latest news for Convention of States, why an Article V convention is worth the effort, and much more.

In a must-listen episode of The BattleCry, Mark Meckler does a deep dive into the history of what has killed powerful republics. Can America cheat history? Then, he answers your questions and responds to a viral video from Congressman Thomas Massie. Ask Mark Anything

Convention of States President Mark Meckler returns to stand up for his friend, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. Why did it take so long to track down the J6 pipe bomber? What is really motivating Candace Owens? And just what is Tim Walz thinking? Inquiring minds want to know, and Mark Meckler has the answers to those questions as well as your submissions for Ask Mark Anything. Welcome to The BattleCry. 

You never know what will happen when you put Mark Meckler and Patriot Academy President Rick Green in a room together! "America's Constitution Coach" sits down for a time of storytelling and vision-casting at the 2025 Race to Freedom Leadership Summit in Indianapolis. After story time with Rick and Mark, they share some exciting plans for the 250th anniversary of American independence.

Mark Meckler talks his strategy with Thanksgiving dinner and talking politics. PLUS, are the Republicans already in trouble for the 2026 midterm elections? Mark offers his ideas on what President Trump can do to turn it around. Then, he answers your questions for another round of Ask Mark Anything. Welcome to The BattleCry. Ask Mark Anything

Mark Meckler is back from his D.C. trip, and he has thoughts. His friend Dr. Kevin Roberts (President of the Heritage Foundation) had a less-than-stellar reaction to the ongoing Tucker Carlson controversy. Plus, Mark comments on the BLOCKBUSTER news out of Kansas and what it means for the Convention of States movement. Then, the COS President launches into an extended edition of Ask Mark Anything. Welcome to The BattleCry! Ask Mark Anything

A few weeks ago, Mark Meckler and Rick Green gave a presentation in Sheridan about the Convention of States.  For two hours they gave their sales pitch.  It sounded great, except there's a whole bunch they left out--criticism that might dissuade support.  With a little reading, it's obvious an convention is the last thing we need to do as a country. Two of the supporters of Convention of States Action--the organization Mark Meckler helped found--who appear on promotional materials have written articles that are completely the opposite of what the crowd in Sheridan was told.  In the end, it's obvious, no one should support a convention.

Is the plan to clean up crime in Memphis working? Who's going to win the New York gubernatorial race? Mark Meckler answers those questions, plus queries that you sent him. Welcome to The BattleCry with the President of Convention of States Action. Ask Mark Anything

Mark Meckler is rejuvenated and ready to finish the year strong. Beginning with a call to action, Mark challenges listeners to be smarter campaigners than certain wings of the Republican Party. He also breaks down what's really going on with the government shutdown, peace in Israel, and looks back on one month without Charlie Kirk. Welcome to The BattleCry. Ask Mark Anything The BattleCry List

In the wake of Charlie Kirk's assassination, Mark Meckler gives a raw, unfiltered address before an emotional gathering of Convention of States activists in Indianapolis to open the Race to Freedom Leadership Summit. September 18, 2025.  Ask Mark Anything

Mark Meckler reflects on his time with Charlie Kirk and mourns his tragic murder. He challenges listeners to follow in Charlie's footsteps of courage and reads X posts from Convention of States supporters reacting to the sad news.

At the 2022 Convention of States Leadership Summit, Sen. Rick Santorum sat down for an intimate interview with COS President Mark Meckler. He shares how he was called into politics, how a speech he made from the Senate floor saved someone's life, and the challenging but rewarding journey of caring for his daughter Bella.  Bella's Gift

The head of Convention of States Action, Mark Meckler, tells why he thinks this constitutional action can save the country. Subscribe to my two podcasts: “The Sharyl Attkisson Podcast” and “Full Measure After Hours.” Leave a review, subscribe and share with your friends! Support independent journalism by visiting the new Sharyl Attkisson store. Preorder Sharyl's new book: “Follow the $cience.” Visit SharylAttkisson.com and FullMeasure.news for original reporting. Do your own research. Make up your own mind. Think for yourself.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of The P.A.S. Report, Professor Nick Giordano sits down with Mark Meckler, President of the Convention of States, to explore the growing disconnect between the American people and their government. He explains why Americans no longer trust government and how to fix it. As public trust continues to erode, Meckler breaks down how entrenched bureaucracy, unpunished corruption, and an unaccountable political class have warped the system beyond recognition. They also discuss the potential of third-party movements like Elon Musk's and why the Convention of States may be the only real solution to restore constitutional principles, enforce term limits, and rein in runaway spending. Episode Highlights: The Convention of States offers a constitutional path to implement term limits, enforce fiscal restraints, and shrink the federal bureaucracy. Elon Musk's rumored third-party movement could fracture the GOP and reshape political coalitions. America's unelected bureaucratic class now functions as an unaccountable fourth branch of government.