Thinking Democracy, coupled with capitalism devoid of an actual free press was a rouse from its start.
More over that it was Congress that's failed us and the Constitution in its role within the constitutional republic.
Ai overview points to factors such as "polarization, institutional weaknesses, and a perceived decline in its authority relative to the executive branch. Other analyses and contrasting views highlight the strengths of the constitutional system, point to cyclical fluctuations in congressional approval, or emphasize the complexity of governance in a diverse nation."
I'm not certain they weren't always bought and paid for and tolerated by 'we the people', as they are today.