The government, which was designed for the people, has got into the hands of the bosses and their employers, the special interests. An invisible empire has been set up above the forms of democracy.

The quote by Woodrow Wilson, the 28th President of the United States, expresses his concern about the corruption and undue influence of special interests on the government. By stating, "The government, which was designed for the people, has got into the hands of the bosses and their employers, the special interests," Wilson highlights the shift from a government that was meant to serve the public good to one that is increasingly controlled by powerful, influential groups that prioritize their own interests over those of the general population.

Wilson’s reference to an "invisible empire" suggests that these special interests operate behind the scenes, exerting influence over political decisions without public visibility or accountability. This "empire" is a metaphor for the corporate and political elites who control much of the decision-making process, undermining the democratic system by working outside the public eye. He argues that this growing concentration of power threatens the integrity of democracy, as it places the needs of the few over the needs of the many.

The quote reflects Wilson's progressive views, which advocated for greater transparency, regulation, and a return to a government that prioritizes the welfare of its citizens over the interests of corporations and monopolies. His statement criticizes the rising influence of big business in politics, particularly during an era when trust-busting and labor reforms were critical to addressing economic and social inequalities.

Ultimately, Wilson’s quote serves as a warning about the dangers of corporate and political collusion, where special interests shape the government’s actions to benefit the elite. It emphasizes the need for vigilance in preserving a democratic system that reflects the will of the people, not the desires of powerful, hidden groups who undermine the foundational principles of representation and fairness.