“Special Interests” and American Politics

A new cant phrase—”special interest”—has entered our political language. Politicians gravely declare themselves against it; television commentators toss the phrase about as if its meaning were transparent; and in this moment of spiritless conservatism there seems to be general agreement that the Republic will be endangered if “special interests” aren’t curbed. Lately, the phrase has been put to a special use. It has become a code word for attacking unions,...