Scrutiny of leadership

Some people feel that the recent slurry of allegations against U.S. government policies and practices such as Tea Party targeting by the IRS; cover ups by the DOJ, and illegal spying by the NSA; constitute reckless endangerment of the respect and power of the well meaning government.

While the U.S. government does is not directly entitled lashon hara protection under the Torah; there are notions of respect and honor for kings, rich people, etc.,

There is another notion, however, that people in power – by whatever means; are subject to a higher level of scrutiny: if not inherently suspect. Or would this be a violation of the precept of not distinguishing between the rich and the poor? E.g if one were for example to accuse the king when he violates a law; but ignore the poor man who does so?