America is Australia’s “great and powerful friend” so it matters a great deal how reliable our firmest strategic partner is. Is the US heading for a degree of political dysfunction that could blow back into its steadfastness as a leading player and an Australian ally in a multipolar Indo-Pacific? In this series, Roger Beale explores the issues underlying the polarisation that has been building in the US political landscape and, as the Presidential election ramps up, is showing deeper cracks that could impact the country’s internal stability. How will this impact the United States’ foreign policy and how will Australia respond?
Political polarisation in the US – Part 1: How real is the problem?
The long hand of history: Political Polarisation in the US – Part 2
A descent into violence? Political polarisation in the US – Part 4
Avoiding the same fate: Political Polarisation in the US – Part 5
Roger was the longest-serving disabled Departmental Secretary (of Environment and Heritage) in the history of the APS – there have only been two since 1901. He contracted polio in 1948 and uses a wheelchair, leg braces and crutches.