Ryan Grim and David Sirota, two investigative journalists from The Intercept, recently uncovered a shocking revelation about the state of American politics. In their article, “Project 2025 Roots Date Back Half a Century,” Grim and Sirota delve into the history of a 1971 memo that laid the foundation for corporate corruption in American politics.
The memo, written by Lewis Powell, a corporate lawyer and future Supreme Court Justice, was titled “Attack on American Free Enterprise System.” In it, Powell outlined a plan for corporations to take control of the political and cultural landscape of America. He argued that businesses needed to be more proactive in defending their interests and influencing public opinion in order to combat the growing anti-corporate sentiment of the time.
Powell’s memo was a direct response to the social and political movements of the 1960s, which had challenged the power and influence of big corporations. The civil rights movement, anti-war protests, and environmental activism had all put pressure on businesses to be more socially responsible and accountable. Powell saw this as a threat to the free market and believed that corporations needed to fight back in order to protect their profits.
Fast forward to 2025, and we can see the lasting impact of Powell’s memo. The corporate takeover of American politics is evident in the policies and decisions being made by our government. The interests of big businesses are prioritized over the needs and well-being of the American people. This is not a coincidence, but rather a direct result of the strategies outlined in Powell’s memo.
One of the most alarming consequences of this corporate influence is the rampant corruption in our political system. The influx of money from corporations and wealthy donors has created a pay-to-play system where politicians are bought and sold like commodities. This has led to policies that benefit the wealthy and powerful at the expense of the majority of Americans.
But Grim and Sirota’s article is not just a bleak look at the current state of American politics. It also offers a glimmer of hope for the future. By exposing the roots of this corruption, we can begin to understand how to dismantle it. We can also learn from the past and work towards a more equitable and just society.
The first step is recognizing the problem. As Grim and Sirota point out, the 1971 memo was a wake-up call for corporations to take control of the political landscape. Similarly, we must recognize the power and influence of corporations in our government and work towards limiting their influence.
We must also hold our elected officials accountable. As citizens, it is our responsibility to demand transparency and integrity from our leaders. We must not allow them to be swayed by corporate interests and instead push for policies that benefit the greater good.
Furthermore, we must support and amplify the voices of those who are fighting against corporate corruption. Grassroots movements and organizations are crucial in challenging the status quo and advocating for change. By joining these efforts, we can make our voices heard and create a more equitable society for all.
In conclusion, the memo written by Lewis Powell in 1971 has had a lasting and detrimental impact on American politics. It laid the groundwork for corporate corruption to thrive and has led to a system that prioritizes profits over people. However, by understanding the roots of this corruption, we can work towards dismantling it and creating a more just and fair society. It is up to us, as citizens, to demand accountability and push for change. Let us learn from the past and create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
