Eroding Foundations

In recent years, the breakdown of democratic norms - the unwritten rules of society - has accelerated at an alarming rate. From the use of Gerrymandering to the uncivil behavior and statements of various political actors to rampant conspiracy theories, American Democracy finds itself under attack.

Eroding Foundations argues that the enforcement of Democratic norms is critical; however, it depends heavily on in-party accountability. Members of a norm-breakers own political party must hold that person accountable to send a strong signal that such behavior is not to be tolerated. When co-partisans fail to enforce norms, whether out of loyalty or partisanship, it creates a dangerous feedback loop, wherein the lack of accountability further weakens to already broken norms.

Drawing on text analysis and statistical modeling, Eroding Foundations shows that a lack of accountability can accelerate the decrease in trust, compromise, and democratic support. Ultimately, Eroding Foundations provides practical insights into how citizens and political leaders can work together to restore democratic norms, rebuild accountability, and safeguard the future of American democracy.