The malevolence of US politics has long been a topic of intense scrutiny and debate. This malevolence, characterised by deep-seated partisanship and a pervasive culture of hostility, manifests in various aspects of political life. In recent years, the US political landscape has become increasingly polarised, with the ideological chasm between the major parties widening to an unprecedented extent (although both are still run by huge corporations and their lobbyists). This growing division has not only stifled constructive dialogue but also eroded public trust in governmental institutions, casting a dark shadow over the principles upon which the nation was founded.
One of the most glaring examples of malevolence in US politics is the rhetoric employed by political leaders. The use of inflammatory and divisive language has become commonplace, fostering an environment of animosity and fear. This hostile discourse not only alienates large segments of the population but also emboldens extremist elements, contributing to a climate of intimidation and violence. The consequences of such rhetoric were starkly illustrated by events such as the storming of the Capitol on January 6, 2021, a direct assault on the republic fuelled by incendiary political statements.
Furthermore, the malevolence in US politics is evident in the pervasive influence of money. The vast sums spent on election campaigns have skewed the political system in favour of wealthy donors and special interest groups. This financial clout often translates into disproportionate influence over policy decisions, undermining the principle of equal representation. The resulting legislation frequently prioritises the interests of the affluent and powerful over those of ordinary citizens, exacerbating social and economic inequalities.
The judiciary has not been immune to the corrosive effects of political malevolence. Judicial appointments have increasingly become battlegrounds for partisan conflicts, with the selection process heavily influenced by political affiliations rather than merit. This trend has threatened the impartiality and independence of the judiciary, undermining public confidence in the legal system. The politicisation of the courts has led to decisions that reflect ideological biases, further entrenching divisions within society.
In addition, voter suppression tactics have emerged as a stark manifestation of political malevolence. Efforts to restrict access to the ballot box, often targeting minority and disadvantaged communities, undermine the fundamental democratic right to vote. These tactics, ranging from stringent voter ID laws to purges of voter rolls, are designed to manipulate electoral outcomes and entrench political power. Such actions erode the integrity of the electoral process and disenfranchise significant portions of the electorate, weakening the foundations of democracy.
The media landscape, too, has been tainted by the malevolence of US politics. Partisan news outlets and the proliferation of misinformation have created echo chambers that reinforce existing biases and deepen divisions. The relentless pursuit of sensationalism and profit has often overshadowed the commitment to unbiased reporting and informed public discourse. This distortion of information impedes citizens’ ability to make well-informed decisions and undermines the democratic process.
Specific examples
The malevolence of US politics can be illustrated through specific examples that highlight the deep-seated partisanship, hostility, and systemic issues plaguing the political landscape. These instances underscore the multifaceted nature of the problem and its impact on American democracy.
One prominent example of divisive rhetoric can be seen in the political discourse surrounding the 2016 and 2020 presidential elections. During his campaigns and presidency, Donald Trump frequently used inflammatory language to disparage opponents and media outlets, labelling them as “fake news” or “enemies of the people.” This kind of rhetoric not only stoked tensions but also fostered a climate of mistrust and hostility. The polarising effect of such language was evident in the widespread protests and violent incidents, including the storming of the Capitol on January 6, 2021. This unprecedented attack on a key institution of the republic was incited by Trump’s non evidenced claims of a stolen election, illustrating the dangerous consequences of incendiary political rhetoric.
The influence of money in politics is starkly illustrated by the 2010 Supreme Court decision in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission. This ruling allowed for unlimited corporate and union spending in elections, fundamentally altering the landscape of political campaign financing. The decision led to the rise of Super PACs (Political Action Committees), which can raise and spend vast sums of money to support or oppose candidates. For example, in the 2020 election cycle, Super PACs and other outside groups spent over $2.6 billion. This influx of money has given wealthy donors and special interest groups disproportionate influence over the political process, often at the expense of ordinary citizens’ interests.
Judicial appointments have become intensely partisan battles, as seen in the confirmation processes for Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett. Kavanaugh’s confirmation in 2018 was marked by highly charged hearings, including allegations of sexual misconduct, which deepened partisan divides. Barrett’s confirmation in 2020, just weeks before the presidential election, was criticised by many as a rushed and politically motivated move to cement a conservative majority on the Court. These contentious appointments have raised concerns about the impartiality and independence of the judiciary, with decisions increasingly reflecting ideological leanings rather than unbiased interpretations of the law.
Voter suppression tactics have also been a significant issue in US politics. For instance, Georgia’s 2018 gubernatorial election saw widespread allegations of voter suppression, particularly affecting African American voters. Then-Secretary of State Brian Kemp, who was also the Republican candidate for governor, oversaw a purge of over 1.4 million voters from the rolls between 2012 and 2018 and held up the registrations of 53,000 predominantly Black voters just before the election. Such actions have raised serious concerns about the integrity of the electoral process and the disenfranchisement of minority communities.
The media landscape has been tainted by partisan reporting and the spread of misinformation, particularly through social media platforms. The proliferation of fake news and conspiracy theories has created echo chambers where individuals are exposed only to information that reinforces their existing beliefs. For example, the widespread dissemination of the QAnon conspiracy theory, which alleges a deep-state plot against Trump, gained significant traction online and influenced the political views of millions. This distortion of information undermines the public’s ability to make informed decisions and contributes to the polarisation of American society.
Overall, the malevolence of US politics is evident in numerous specific examples, from divisive rhetoric and the corrupting influence of money to partisan judicial appointments and voter suppression tactics. These issues have profoundly impacted the democratic process and the fabric of American society. Addressing these challenges requires a concerted effort to restore integrity, fairness, and civility to the political arena, ensuring that democracy can function effectively for all citizens.
UK Malevolence
Many right wing politicians and figures have attempted to copy the US and create division amongst the population in an attempt to retain power and further enable the corporate establishment to control the population.
The malevolence of UK politics has become increasingly apparent in recent years, almost in parallel with the US, manifesting in various forms of divisive rhetoric, systemic corruption, and a deteriorating trust in democratic institutions. This malevolence has not only stifled constructive political discourse but also eroded public confidence in the political system, highlighting a significant departure from the values of integrity and fairness traditionally associated with British democracy.
One of the most glaring examples of malevolence in UK politics is the pervasive use of polarising and inflammatory language by political leaders. The Brexit referendum in 2016 exemplified this trend, with campaigns marked by misleading information and aggressive rhetoric. The Leave campaign, for instance, was criticised for its false claims about the financial benefits of leaving the European Union and for stoking fears about immigration. This divisive approach not only deepened societal rifts but also set a precedent for future political debates, where misinformation and fear mongering became common tactics.
The influence of money in UK politics further exemplifies this malevolence. Scandals such as the “cash for honours” affair, where political donations were linked to the awarding of peerages, have cast a long shadow over the political landscape. More recently, the controversy surrounding the Conservative Party’s acceptance of substantial donations from wealthy individuals and corporations has raised questions about the integrity of the political process. These financial ties often result in policies that favour the interests of the affluent, undermining the principle of equal representation and exacerbating social inequalities.
The handling of the COVID-19 pandemic also highlighted the malevolence within UK politics. The awarding of government contracts without competitive tendering to companies with close ties to political figures drew significant criticism. For instance, the controversy surrounding the procurement of personal protective equipment (PPE) exposed how political connections could influence the allocation of public resources. This cronyism not only wasted taxpayer money but also potentially cost lives, as inadequate and substandard equipment was delivered to frontline workers.
The integrity of democratic institutions has also been compromised by partisan manipulation. The prorogation of Parliament in 2019 by Prime Minister Boris Johnson, ostensibly to prevent MPs from blocking his Brexit plans, was a stark example. The Supreme Court’s ruling that the prorogation was unlawful underscored the extent to which political leaders were willing to subvert democratic norms for their own ends. Such actions erode public trust in the political system and undermine the checks and balances that are essential for a healthy democracy.
Electoral tactics, such as gerrymandering and voter suppression, further illustrate the malevolence in UK politics. The Boundary Commission’s proposals for redrawing constituency boundaries have been criticised for disproportionately favouring the ruling party in the longer term, thereby skewing electoral outcomes. Additionally, the introduction of voter ID requirements has been viewed as a measure that could disenfranchise vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and low-income voters, who are less likely to possess the necessary identification.
The role of the media in UK politics also reflects this malevolence. Partisan reporting and the influence of powerful media moguls have shaped public perception and political outcomes. For example, the relationship between politicians and media figures like Rupert Murdoch has raised concerns about the undue influence of media conglomerates on political decision-making. The sensationalist and often biased coverage of political issues further polarises public opinion and detracts from informed and rational discourse.
The malevolence of US and UK politics is a multifaceted issue that undermines the foundations of democracy. From divisive rhetoric and financial corruption to the manipulation of democratic institutions and the influence of partisan media, the impact is profound and far-reaching. Addressing these challenges requires a renewed commitment to transparency, integrity, and fairness in the political process. Only through such efforts can the US and UK hope to restore public trust and uphold the democratic principles that are essential for a just and equitable society.
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