I'm a Latinist. Despite my education, I have learned the instincts of my father (Vietnam Vet) are often correct--and way ahead of me. Perhaps what you are instinctually sensing is the status of citizen as slave to a state that may not be functioning as a democratic republic, as established. I suspect you're onto something. There is info out there suggesting this government is not what we think it is.

Historical note: According to Tacitus's Annales, it seems many Romans thought they could re-establish the actual Republic after the domination of Augustus. They were wrong.

Thank you for your past and continued service.