The deep state is attracting increased attention recently. This unseen power behind the scenes that is sometimes called the shadow government, operates in obscurity and uses its influence to work through as well as around the active government and without regard for democratic process. Considered as conspiracy theory by some, the idea of a group of powerful people working to control political and economic process had long been recognized as having validity in the third world. More recently this idea has been growing in credibility concerning the United States as well.

As Donald Trump’s candidacy gained momentum and even more so since his inauguration many people have pointed to the resistance of his policies as evidence of the deep state's existence and current operation. Members of the Trump White House often refer to this shadow government and its role in selectively leaking classified information or organizing different elements of resistance to their administration. Such a high-level reference to this unseen power behind the scenes has dramatically increased the credibility of these ideas. The legitimacy of the government operating in secrecy draws its power from the CIA and the intelligence community who of necessity operate behind a veil to protect information vital to the security of our country. The recent power struggle between the current administration and the intelligence elite, brings to light the question of exactly who controls what and when is the secrecy used to protect our country and when is it used to invade our country and subvert the power of the people. Many times, during the history of our government the argument about the deep state has raged on. The ascendancy of this concept is not something that is new or is it likely to go away considering the historical ebb and flow of this dialog. Books about the Deep State have been written and t-shirts created for those who believe in the theory.

Those concerned with the integrity of our nation’s governors will continue to be concerned and those who are convinced there is no reason to be concerned will continue to scoff. One thing is for sure this issue will not be resolved quickly.