It's not a new concept historically speaking. It just runs counter to contemporary, generally Progressive (as in early 20th century Progressive vs. modern progr

It's not a new concept historically speaking. It just runs counter to contemporary, generally Progressive (as in early 20th century Progressive vs. modern progressive) ideals of republican virtue. Offices being for sale and run for profit is the old way of doing things both in the US and around the world. America's laws are generally supposed to prevent it because it has been the natural tendency for government offices to be spoils.