In a written conversation with John Guida of Times Opinion, political theorist Hugo Drochon argues that democracy depends on elites. While everyone claims to hate elites, candidates run to become or remain elites who govern and wield power. Drochon explores how the existence of a small number of people with disproportionate power can be reconciled with political equality.

Guida asks if the midterm elections, fewer than 40 days away, are a contest between elites. Drochon says parties are institutions through which elites compete, and voters decide which elites rule. The reality is not majority rule but minorities rule, with elites needing some popular support to hold power.

Drochon distinguishes governing elites from nongoverning elites. Donald Trump in 2016 was not a political elite but was an economic elite and celebrity. Over the past 10 years, a new elite challenged the old establishment, bringing in tech figures like Elon Musk. The difference between governing and nongoverning elites, defined by Vilfredo Pareto, remains crucial.