The evolving tragedy in Flint, Michigan, is a national tragedy. Moneyed interests are poisoning the country. Corporations, polluters and billionaires elect politicians who encircle government agencies, crippling their public purpose and functions.

These forces explain the poisoned drinking water in Flint. Like the stories of other important environmental crimes, the Flint story of poisoned water has become a national story by accident. The governor of Michigan, Rick Snyder, finally admitted he erred. His bureaucrats bungled so badly the news seeped out like lead seeped into the drinking water.