I dont think the core bureaucracy (politicians and the workings of the democratic system) of America are, by themselves, in any way bloated or harmful. They are

I dont think the core bureaucracy (politicians and the workings of the democratic system) of America are, by themselves, in any way bloated or harmful. They are complexity that gives us overwhelming returns by having a stable political system that, as you note, prevents outright descent into tyranny. But there's layers of bloat built around this system, from power brokers to marketing firms to talk show radio. Ultimately I doubt the bloat of our political system is that great, if anything I'd be more concerned about the bloat from our military system. If I ask myself how many people do I know building a career off military dollars, versus a career off political dollars, the former camp is much larger.