"We have to protect ourselves from democracy"

And water is wet

Wouldn't surprise me in the slightest.

Very simple example: Do you remember in the 80s and 90s rock stars really inspiring and leading the public? Where are they now? Today leadership figures have no chance in hell in the music industry, only compliant plastic dolls please.

Political message in a song? Hell no!

It is quite likely this approach is being taken in every corner of life.