The problem is that "liberal-democratic values" has always been a smoke screen. Since the 19th century the "liberal" agenda has always been about wresting control over policy from landed elites in favor of business interests and the 'democratic' part was very much an ideal, rather than a practicality. The widening of the voting franchise progressed in lock step with the confidence of the elites that they could 'manage' the 'democracy' that emerged in their own interests and they have been remarkably successful in that endeavor.

Now that there is no real internal or external opposition to their rule it has devolved into governmental capture by elites and the implementation of their program of looting. "Liberal-democratic values" are increasingly a joke played on the 99% - who are just starting to catch on, very belatedly.

"It is not necessary to have hope in order to persevere."