CIPS

There are some things I don't understand. What is the difference between a monopoly and Ameren CIPS? What are the available options for power other than CIPS? How can people on fixed incomes adapt to double and triple rate increases? Why do the very politicians who are key in "serving" their constituents take huge payolla dollars from CIPS? It must be easier to pay one's electric bill with thousands of dollars from CIPS in their pocket. I don't understand how the politicians can be indifferent to how this is effecting the life of so many people.