This is a very humbling and well drafted response to @elfspice article. In the way that this system is built there is no way around collusion. In a way you're going to support the ones you have association with somehow. If they supported you and vice versa. Which is fantastic, It seems at time that it is a close nit few up there way at the top. But they earned their place and helped others earn there's.
I'm sure if someone else came along and offered something valuable they won't just cut them out or ex-communicate them.
I'm sure they'll also support and vote for someone that they're confident will help the community grow in some way. It would be a conspiracy if they didn't support others but themselves at all. I believe that support is earned or just give depending on the person.
I support all new comers and anyone that needs help. When it comes to a witness vote I'm sure I would do my homework and see what that witness has to offer before casting like anyone else.
I know the top are still limited to 30 votes per just as we are so their votes might not change as much as ours. Conspiracy, probably not. Collusion yes, and there's still room for growth so a new witness can shine or bring something to the table I'm sure they will be considered for votes from the top. I'd like to think this place isn't COMPLETELY about the money.
Things like this did need some light shed on it. @elfspice brings in valid points and I hope we listen to him like we would to anyone else. Without someone having a voice like this and letting others that are playing the system in a harmful manner to the success of others, to let them know we're paying attention. We're listening, and we're here to change things for the better of the eco-system.
I want to thank @elfspice for his amazing article and I want to thank you for such a posed response @chitty. You two have my upmost admiration and respect.