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From Revolution to Polarization: What Remains of the American Promise?

    • July 02, 2026
    • ; 9:00
  • -
    • July 02, 2026
    • ; 10:30

As the United States marks 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, it faces profound political and institutional tensions. Polarization, declining trust in democratic institutions, and shifting party alignments shape the domestic landscape with direct consequences for America’s global role. 
At this historic milestone, questions about the resilience and future trajectory of American democracy have become more pressing. Is the U.S. political system demonstratingits longstanding capacity to adapt and renew itself in times of crisis? Or do deepening divisions, institutional strain, and structural challenges point to more fundamental vulnerabilities? 
This transatlantic Deep Dive Discussion, structured as an Oxford-style debate, will bring together two teams representing contrasting perspectives on these questions. Through a dynamic exchange of arguments and rebuttals, the speakers will examine whether the American democratic system continues to demonstrate resilience and adaptive capacity, or whether rising polarization and institutional tensions pose deeper and more lasting challenges. 
The debate will explore key themes shaping the current political moment in the United States, including the strength and flexibility of constitutional institutions, the evolution of party politics, and the role of public trust and democratic norms. It will also consider the broader international implications of America’s domestic political developments, particularly for transatlantic cooperation and the global perception of democratic governance. 
By bringing together diverse viewpoints in a structured debate format, the event aims to foster a nuanced and balanced discussion at a pivotal moment in American history. As the United States reflects on 250 years since its founding declaration, the conversation will provide an opportunity to assess not only the challenges facing American democracy today, but also its capacity to endure and evolve in the years ahead. 

Contact

  • Frances Eden

  • Junior Program Officer
  • Phone: +49 030 80489028
  • eden@aspeninstitute.de
  • Ronja Möller

  • Program Assistant
  • Phone: +49 030 80489017
  • moeller@aspeninstitute.de
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