Two Cheers for Two Parties
Topics: Politics, U.S.
Debate Date: February 13, 2020
This debate is presented with generous support from the Dolby Family in partnership with Hirsch Philanthropy Partners.
Facing extreme partisanship and polarization, America's two-party system has come under fire. Critics argue that the two-party system runs contrary to the founders' intent and has created a political system that fails to represent the electorate, concentrates power for the elites, and makes compromise impossible. They say it's time for real structural change.
But others are more cautious. They argue that the two-party system is necessary to rein in extremes on both sides and promote the democratic institutions that are necessary to the nation's political and social stability. Further, they argue that multi-party democracies around the world -- including Israel, the UK, and Italy -- are now struggling to maintain stability and should serve as a warning to Americans seeking reform at home.
As the nation gears up for the 2020 presidential election, we ask: Is the two-party system good for democracy?
ARGUING YES:
David Keating: President at the Center for Competitive Politics
Jacob Sullum: Senior Editor for Reason Magazine
ARGUING NO:
Trevor Potter: President and General Counsel of the Campaign Legal Center
Jonathan Soros: Senior Fellow at the Roosevelt Institute, Co-founder of Friends of Democracy
MODERATOR-IN-CHIEF:
John Donvan: Emmy award-winning journalist