Many Americans believe that the US government requires significant systemic reform, prompting a look at how other countries handle their political systems. In the United Kingdom, voters were surprised by a snap general election announcement from Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, which will take place on July 4. British voters do not directly choose a prime minister, but instead select members of Parliament, with the leader of the winning party automatically assuming the role of prime minister. In contrast to the UK’s quick election process, India conducts its elections over weeks, with results announced on June 4. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is seeking a third consecutive term, with his reputation shifting from a reformer to a divisive nationalist.
Mexico’s political system, which is similar to the US, sees President Andrés Manuel López Obrador stepping aside after one six-year term. Mexican voters will choose between two younger women in the upcoming election, as opposed to the older male candidates in the US election. Claudia Sheinbaum and Xochitl Gálvez, both 61, are the front-runners for the presidency. The election in Mexico is a direct one, with the candidate receiving the most votes declared the winner. Additionally, Mexico has 15-year term limits for Supreme Court justices, unlike the lifetime appointments seen in the US.
The article also delves into the Supreme Court in the US, specifically focusing on the lack of term limits for justices. Justices Alito and Thomas, both in their 70s, have been on the bench for over three decades and are allowed to remain indefinitely. There have been concerns about potential biases based on flags flown outside Alito’s home and activism from Thomas’ wife. Although efforts to impose term limits on US Supreme Court justices exist, there is currently not enough political momentum for significant change. Additionally, the UK revamped its Supreme Court through the Constitutional Reform Act in 2005, highlighting the differences in how the two countries approach constitutional issues.
The discussion of other forms of government includes cautionary tales from Russia and China, where autocratic leaders with limited freedoms have expanded their influence. In El Salvador, a ban on consecutive presidential terms was recently overturned, allowing President Nayib Bukele to seek reelection. In the US, the 22nd Amendment restricts presidents from serving more than two terms, ensuring that whoever wins the upcoming election, Biden or Trump, will not be able to run again. While there are active campaigns to change the US political system, major political momentum is lacking, making significant reforms challenging. Republicans currently benefit from the existing system, reducing the likelihood of a complete overhaul.
