I realize that I let myself get overheated.
Apologies
@KevinB
I have to say that my issues are not with the US. I have spent too much time down there and have made too many friends with too many shared problems.
On the other hand I do have a problem with an entity I am coming to define as the State Department Party. A geopolitical entity with fellow travelers in all Western governments. Authoritarian liberals. A priesthood that aspires to control and not co-operation.
I am a supporter of sovereignty - both personal and national - so I am inclined to seek solutions that assure the greatest freedom of action for both myself and my country. I am not against co-operating. I encourage it. But I am not inclined towards subservience.
PS having met both bureaucrats and jailbirds in the US I have to say that I generally found the jailbirds more honourable.