> but simply that it is an accepted system in our society for resolving disparate viewpoints on governance.

But it is not, as my example shows. There's a lot more to it. That's the entire point.

> that there isn't some shadowy system for how landlords can control zoning

I don't think anyone is arguing it is in any way shadowy, it's done very openly. There is sufficient discussion in the media about the practice of voting in the US, so I will not repeat that.

Also, take the Bay Area as an example - how large would you guess is the fraction of immigrants working in Tech? And mind you, even a green card does not allow you to vote. All of these people are excluded from the process.

Ironic, if you think about how this whole country started on 'no taxation without representation'.