Political Institutions Comparison

The United States electoral system was initially designed to protect the people’s interests, no matter how big or small. Yet, the modern day election system plagues the American government with an inability to reach common ground on policy, resulting in constant deadlock. Although the founders’ emphasis on individual accountability to voters was well intended, current party polarization and divided government render the U.S. government inefficient. Comparatively, the mixed member proportional representation system of New Zealand allows for not only proportional representation, but maintains individual accountability to voters and overall effectiveness. The US two-party system leads to extreme polarization of two opposing political ideals. Multi-party systems allow for more diversity of political opinions and prevents one party from having the majority. Specific policy measures regarding gun control and climate change help to further the argument that a multiparty system of elections and government fosters a more effective government.