The Mis-education of Washington

Currently in Washington D.C., there is a lot of agenda items needed to be addressed.  The question is, Do the public really understand what is really going on?  We, meaning the people, are constantly thrown off with matters dealing with the war, oil, and how much money the economy is losing rather than focusing on how we can improve or fix these matters.

Are we purposely, guided by the government and media to focus on non-agenda items? Do voters really understand the power of a vote? With those who are not educated on government issues, how much effect does that have on their perception of the government? Do people understand racism and classification?  What can be done for majority (poor and working class) to finally be heard by the government?