They would have to undergo a paradigm shift in how they think about the government and themselves. Even if these changes occur, Lewis' call for increased-participation runs into a more fundamental problem. E.L. Doctorow, the noted novelist, has suggested that the American public has chosen to remain ignorant of their country's political realities. Because they refuse to confront the situation, they are condemned to live under a system wherein the wealthy and the powerful rule. I would extend this argument to say that the development of a ruling oligarchy is a function of the fundamental paradox of maintaining a democratic republic while releasing the constraints on capitalism.
Money translates into political power.
The rich can afford to hire expensive lobbyists or pay for television commercials to disproportionate affect. Laws are passed at the expense of the poor, who, as Lewis eloquently argues, haven't the monetary means to make their case. Perhaps change is possible. In fact I agree with Lewis' call to American people to participate in their government. It's a sensate experience in that interpersonal interaction is de rigeur.