This House Believes America is a failing Democracy

GMK News reports from the final debate of the the Michaelmas 2024 term at the Oxford Union. With Trump now confirmed with a second term starting in the New Year, the Oxford Union examines whether the US is living up to its democratic promises or faltering under new pressures that challenge the foundations of its political system.

Tonight’s debate follows on from one of the most controversial debates at the union this century. ‘ This House believes Israel is an Apartheid State responsible for genecide was carried by 278 votes to 59. A backlash of articles have followed in the national press following on from the Oxford Union’s claim of and condemnation of Israel genocide in relation to the wars in Gaza and Lebanon. Most concerning have been complaints from Jewish attendees who felt extremely threatened by the majority of pro- Palestinian supporters at the event. One main Speaker walked out of the chamber in disgust at all the animosity raised by the debate. Tonight, GMK News hopes things will be a little calmer and order restored to our beloved debating chamber as we move towards tge New Year. The US democracy debate was preceded by the emergency debate, ‘ This House Supports Presidential ParDons’. The motion was rejected by a close ney call.

The outgoing President opened the motion arguing. Us . Elections influenced by money to the value of billions. However, as his speech progressed one was left wondering if the debate was more about a desire to attack the successful re-election of Trump rather than a genuine criticism of the US constitution.. The opener against argued that democracy does not have to be an utopia. The female proposer argued that the us constitiin has become more inclusive not just one generation ago but many right back to start of the constitution. Free Press and teachers have created a healthy us constituion. American is not failing, it is transforming and reforming. The incoming Asian President to an outgoing Egyptian one, seconded the motion, talking about holding people to account. He followed with a joke that ‘ not only is us democracy is in crisis but the Oxford Union is in crisis because he has been elected’. American democracy is eroding, one law at a time. Where the press has become an enemy of the state. Where unelected presidents refuse to accept the election result. This is the state of US democracy. Where are the checks and Balences? Senate and congress and the unbiased being last line of defence. They are not the tools of democracy but one of an oligarchy.