[Beemnseven]

Originally Posted by Slingin Sammy 33

The Dems have plenty of labels for their opponents that are thrown around as well: corporate elites, oil companies, "rich, old white guys", profitmongers, warmongers, chickenhawks, etc. etc.

Can't speak for other Republicans, but I would want an elite neurosurgeon(def b.), not an elitist neurosurgeon.

elite: a. A group or class of persons or a member of such a group or class, enjoying superior intellectual, social, or economic status:
b. The best or most skilled members of a group

elitist: someone who believes in rule by an elite group

elitism:
1. The belief that certain persons or members of certain classes or groups deserve favored treatment by virtue of their perceived superiority, as in intellect, social status, or financial resources.
2. a. The sense of entitlement enjoyed by such a group or class.b. Control, rule, or domination by such a group or class.

Would you have called Thomas Jefferson an elitist? How about Alexander Hamilton or James Madison?

Using the definitions you provided, would you prefer to be ruled by an elite group, or by incompetant buffoons?