Let’s talk about democracy in America, or rather, the concerns that are surfacing about its current state. Harvard Kennedy School’s own Professors Alex Keyssar and Archon Fung have been vocal about their worries. They’re seeing signs that the U.S. political system, once a beacon of democratic principles, might be veering off course. The fear? America could be heading towards a period of political turmoil, or worse, a situation where a minority could effectively call the shots.
The compromises that once made it possible for a diverse nation to find common ground are now showing cracks. These aren’t just minor issues; they’re potentially fatal flaws that could lead to minority rule. And it seems the Republican Party’s relentless quest for power is only accelerating this process, chipping away at the very foundation of democracy all Americans once agreed upon.
Now, let’s add some global context. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index doesn’t paint a rosy picture either. It places the U.S. in the ‘flawed democracy’ category. Yep, you heard that right. Out of 167 countries, America sits at 26th, nestled between Chile and Estonia. This ranking isn’t just about how America votes; it’s about how the government functions, how much Americans participate politically, their political culture, and their civil liberties.
So, what does all this mean? It’s a wake-up call for some serious soul-searching and reform. With the 2024 presidential election on the horizon, it shouldn’t just be academics who are concerned
From across the Pacific, we in New Zealand watch with concern as the beacon of democracy that once was the United States seems to dim. It’s a poignant reminder that no democracy is immune to the challenges of time and change. The US, once a model for many, now finds itself grappling with the realities of a flawed democracy. But it doesn’t have to be this way.
To our American friends, the call is clear: it’s time to reignite the democratic spirit that has long defined your nation. Each vote, each voice, and each act of civic engagement is a step away from the shadows of authoritarianism and towards the light of true democratic governance. This isn’t just about one election; it’s about reshaping the fabric of your society for generations to come.
So, I urge you, the people of America, to draw upon your rich history of democracy. Reflect on the principles that have guided you and take action to ensure they are not merely relics of the past. Your commitment to democracy can be a commitment to the world, a signal that the values of freedom and fairness are alive and well. Let’s see America not just participate in democracy, but be a living, healthy example once more.
Another Spectrum 
5 May, 2024 at 12:33 am
When I lived in the USA most people were not interested in the democratic process because they felt Washington was too far away and not interested in them. The news in a state was dominated by local news, not even much news from the next state over. I think we are seeing a point in a long decline which is much harder to reverse than something recent.
5 May, 2024 at 12:44 am
I agree that it’s been on a decline for a very long time and it hasn’t been an “example to the world” for at least my lifetime (I’m 75), possibly much longer. But it’s no longer just a decline. It seems to to be on a headlong dash towards authoritarianism. And as much as we don’t like it, the expression “when America sneezes, the world catches a cold” still contains an element of truth.
6 May, 2024 at 5:36 am
I believe that if we make it through the November election (and I believe we will), we will have an opportunity to begin rebuilding the very imperfect democracy we’ve had to reach closer to our ideal as a multiracial, multiethnic nation. I derive hope from my knowledge of the huge numbers of grass roots organizations that are working for the most part below the radar–and definitely below awareness among the mainstream media that continue to function as if all they need to do is report–incorrectly–about the horse race. We know we must defeat the MAGA radicals resoundingly–and there are many Never Trump Republicans who know that too.
6 May, 2024 at 11:46 am
Agreed. It’s an absolute mess and seemingly in freefall. All across the country, college students are engaged civically, calling for an end to murder, but that is just adding to the polarization. Politicians blend the (majority’s) call for peace together with the (minority’s) messages of antisemitism and label all the protests evil. I wouldn’t wait on the US. This is going to take decades to fix.
6 May, 2024 at 11:51 pm
I don’t think the US has ever been the beacon of democratic principles. The electoral system is flawed as is the Supreme Court appointments and the Senate President’s seamingly powerful roll plus…..
Although the framers of the Australian Constitution adopted many features of the United States Constitution, they rejected the separation of legislative and executive power in favour of responsible government in a parliamentary system like that of the United Kingdom.(Adelaide Law Review)
Phew lucky fo Australia, they did not take on the whole US system and adopted the Westminster rather than a Republican framework.
7 May, 2024 at 12:15 am
The US has probably never been the beacon but it’s a myth almost every American belives is true, or belives was true until recently. As the post is an appeal specifically to Americans, then a little polishing of their ego is entirely appropriate 😊