The crush of lobbyists on Washington and purchase of the media by corporations has created a big business-run government and a worthless press leaving Americans screwed and ill-informed.

In this quote, Adam McKay, a filmmaker and political commentator, critiques the overwhelming influence of lobbyists and corporations on Washington politics. He argues that the pressure from lobbyists—who represent corporate interests—has created a government that serves the needs of big business rather than the public. McKay suggests that the excessive influence of these lobbyists, coupled with the control that corporations have over the media, has resulted in a government that prioritizes corporate interests, leaving the average citizen at a disadvantage. The quote emphasizes the corruption and inefficiency that McKay believes arise when money and power dominate political decision-making.

McKay's statement also highlights the role of the media in shaping public perception and informing citizens. He argues that when corporations own large portions of the media, it compromises the ability of the press to act as an independent check on government power. Rather than providing objective and critical reporting, the media becomes a tool for corporate interests, leaving the public ill-informed and unable to make informed decisions about politics and society. McKay suggests that this media corruption contributes to a cycle of misinformation, which further entrenches the power of big business and the political elite.

The phrase "leaving Americans screwed and ill-informed" underscores McKay's frustration with the state of American democracy. He argues that the influence of corporations and lobbyists has left the average American citizen powerless and misinformed, which undermines the core principles of democracy. According to McKay, the lack of transparency and accountability in both government and media makes it difficult for ordinary citizens to engage in meaningful political action or hold those in power accountable.

The origin of this quote can be traced to McKay's long-standing concerns about the concentration of corporate power and its negative impact on both politics and journalism. As a director known for his satirical work on political and economic systems, such as in the films "The Big Short" and "Vice", McKay has used his platform to raise awareness about the systemic issues that contribute to the corruption of the government and media. This quote reflects his critical stance on the intersection of politics, business, and the media, and his belief that these forces have led to a broken system that harms everyday Americans.