Your quote "It makes it increasingly difficult for average citizens to get the information they need to decide whether those in government, both hired and elected, are acting in their best interest".

I do believe you have just about wrapped it up if they are not speaking with you then they are not acting in your best interests. As they go hand in hand. And Olympic related costs well thats another big secret that the cats not letting out of the bag as if you got secrets you got lies as the Canadian Line is more the Canadian Lie.