What are Millar's arguments against those who claim that the Roman Republic was a top down system?

Millar argues against the notion that the Roman Republic was solely a top-down system by highlighting the significant role of popular assemblies and the influence of the plebeian class in political decision-making. He emphasizes that while elite families held considerable power, the active participation of the lower classes in elections and their ability to pass legislation demonstrate a more complex, bottom-up dynamic. Additionally, Millar points to the importance of political patronage and clientelism, which facilitated a network of influence that transcended simple hierarchical structures. Thus, the Republic's political landscape was shaped by a broader range of social interactions and power distributions.