The modern equivalent of the clergy are the conservative media.

An EXCELLENT observation.  I am tempted to modify my post.

Please remember, however, in USA, the clergy still fill their old-fashoned roles.  If you have a strong stomach, you should check out the USA televangelists with their Jesus-LOVES-the-rich Calvinism as they try to fleece their flocks.

"Remember the I35W bridge--who needs terrorists when there are Republicans"