The problem is much more than out of touch politicians. It is human nature and the systems it spawns. The whole point of our American democracy was to try and devise a system of government whereby the smart, the rich and the powerful could not unduly crush the average joe.

Unfortunately no matter how you try to devise a government system that will protect the little guy, nature ends up having its way. Very smart folks with connections and unlimited economic resources will always find ways to subvert any system of governance to there personal advantage. Thus rolling the little guy over and over again.