There are only three weeks to go before election day in America. Like many political science nerds around the world, I have been avidly following the twists and turns of the campaign. The uninspiring Biden-Trump rematch was hard to watch. Were these two men the best a nation of 345 million people had to offer? Generational change in both parties, at all levels of government, is needed to reinvigorate American politics and bring things back to a more moderate, less divisive centre.
When Watson began writing this essay Biden was still on the ticket. He explores Biden's life in politics and the many achievements of his presidency. More Americans have health insurance, job growth and wages have risen, worker protections have improved. The economy is better, crime is declining and there has been serious action on climate change. Biden has reduced inequality. Watson pointed to many initiatives I did not know about and I reckon when non-partisan historians write of the Biden legacy he will be viewed with much admiration.
After the depressing Trump-Biden debate things had to change. Within a few short weeks, JD Vance was named as Trump's running mate, Biden was out, Harris was the Democratic nominee, and there had been an assassination attempt on Trump.
Watson writes of the threat of a second Trump presidency, the way he has shifted the Republican party towards populism, xenophobia and isolationism. His family and acolytes are entrenched in the party, making Trumpism the test of loyalty and favour. Watson contrasts Trump's appearance at his hush money trial with his campaign rallies - ever the showman, relying on entertainment over substance.
The swap from Biden to Harris brought with it a glimmer of hope that change was possible. Watson talks with everyday Americans about the polarisation of politics, misinformation and division. He explores how the media has a lot to answer for, racism and fear run deep, and how voters mistrust the electoral system. Whatever happens on election day, America is a tinderbox ready to ignite.
I greatly enjoyed Watson's exploration of American politics. He is an intelligent, unpretentious and persuasive author. This is a brilliant Quarterly Essay, well worth a read.
My review of Don Watson's previous Quarterly Essay, Enemy Within: American Politics in the Time of Trump (QE63), is also available on this blog.