"Moreover, the constitutionally provided 'separation of powers' makes no difference in this regard. Two or even three wrongs do not make a right. To the contrary, they lead to the proliferation, accumulation, reinforcement, and aggravation of error. Legislators cannot impose their will on their hapless subjects without the cooperation of the president as the head of the executive branch of government, and the president in turn will use his position and the resources at his disposal to influence legislators and legislation. And although the Supreme Court may disagree with particular acts of Congress or the president, Supreme Court judges are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate and remain dependent on them for funding. As an integral part of the institution of government, they have no interest in limiting but every interest in expanding the government's, and hence their own, power." - Hans-Hermann Hoppe, ***Democracy: The God That Failed*** (2001) p. 276-277
Discussion
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.