Did the Constitution doom American democracy?
The article examines whether the U.S. Constitution inherently threatens American democracy, arguing that structural features and political dynamics have amplified polarization and weakened democratic norms. It discusses the role of federalism, Senate rules, and the Electoral College in shaping governance, suggesting reforms could be needed to prevent gridlock and protect legitimacy.
It reflects on Matt Yglesias’s 2015 forecast of systemic collapse and assesses whether the Trump era validated or refuted that warning. The piece analyzes Trump’s presidency, constitutional challenges, and the resilience of democratic institutions in the face of populist pressure and constitutional norms being tested.
Overall, the piece weighs whether constitutional design is a safeguard or a liability for democracy, highlighting ongoing debates about reform, accountability, and the balance between stability and responsive representation.