This election cycle has been more dramatic and cringe-inducing to watch than an episode of E! Channel’s “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.” Name-calling, an arrest, alleged but unsubstantiated extramarital affairs, Twitter wars and a federal investigation have fueled the gutter politics Americans have been forced to watch. Both parties are complicit, and it is no wonder so many Americans have lost faith in government. The whole system seems screwed.

The Republican primary process has been especially messy, and a circular firing squad mentality has only exacerbated the situation. The establishment wing of the party, both nationally and at the state level, has been the clear loser. Eight GOP governors and four senators have come and gone from the race as Republican voters have made it clear they don’t want an establishment candidate. Donald Trump and Ted Cruz have risen to the top of the field by tapping into the anger millions of voters feel against not just Washington but the GOP establishment as well.