America on the brink: Is civil divorce the only remedy?

By willowt // 2025-02-18

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The United States is facing a crisis of unity and democracy, with deep ideological and political divides reminiscent of the pre-Civil War era.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene has called for a "national divorce," reflecting a growing belief among Americans that the current system is irreparably broken, with 23% supporting state secession.
The 2024 election highlighted the geographic and historical divide between "red" and "blue" states, underlining the long-standing divisions in the country.
Some experts argue that decentralization and secession might be the only viable long-term solutions to address the current divisions, citing historical examples and global trends.
The challenge for leaders and citizens is to find a path that respects the diverse values and aspirations of all Americans, even if it means a painful but necessary restructuring of the nation.

The United States, once a beacon of unity and democracy, is facing a profound crisis. The deepening ideological and political schisms are reminiscent of the pre-Civil War era, threatening to fracture the nation into irreconcilable factions. As the fallout from the 2024 election continues, the possibility of a "national divorce" is no longer just a fringe idea but a topic of serious discussion. This article delves into the historical context, current political dynamics and potential long-term solutions, drawing on the insights of experts and recent data.

Historical echoes of a divided nation

The American Civil War (1861-1865) was fought over issues that included slavery, states' rights and economic differences. Today, the divide is no longer about slavery but about a range of issues from abortion and gun control to immigration and LGBTQ rights. The parallels are stark: Just as the Civil War pitted the Union against the Confederacy, today's political landscape is increasingly defined by a red-blue dichotomy. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a right-wing Republican from Georgia, has openly called for a "national divorce," stating, "We need to separate by red states and blue states." Her sentiment reflects a growing belief among many Americans that the current system is irreparably broken. A recent survey found that 23% of Americans support their state seceding from the Union, with strong Republicans being the most likely to favor this extreme measure.

Battleground for the soul of America

The recent 2024 election was a decisive moment. Early projections suggested a tight race, with Biden/Harris leading in states that historically aligned with the Union and President Donald Trump holding strong in former Confederate states. This geographic and historical divide is not coincidental; it underscores the deep-seated divisions that have been building for decades. Now that the Trump administration has taken the reins, guns ablaze, liberals are crying big crocodile tears but many find it difficult to put their finger on exactly what they have an issue with, considering all the fraud that is getting exposed.

Long-term solutions: The case for decentralization and secession

In the face of such profound division, some experts argue that decentralization and secession might be the only viable long-term solutions. Historian Bryan Lutz notes, "Secession can effectively reign in state power and decentralize it, as evidenced by historical examples from the 19th and 20th centuries." This perspective is gaining traction, which is seen as a continuation of the Ron Paul Revolution, pushing for radical ideas like abolishing the FBI and reshuffling USAID. The concept of secession is not new. In the 1990s, when Quebecois separatism was a live issue, Canadian political scientist Robert Young studied peaceful national breakups. He found that the key to successful secession was the acceptance of the inevitable by the leadership of the predecessor nation. The Velvet Divorce of Czechoslovakia in 1992 is a prime example, where both sides agreed to an amicable split, leading to the formation of the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

Global context and future outlook

The dissolution of large states into smaller entities is a global trend. The Soviet Union's collapse in the 1990s and the ongoing discussions in places like Catalonia and Scotland highlight the inevitability of such changes. In the U.S., the idea of secession is increasingly seen as a way to institutionalize freedom and address pressing issues like sovereign debt and political legitimacy. However, the logistics of a U.S. breakup would be complex. The sheer size and diversity of the nation mean that any division would need to be carefully negotiated. Proposals include the formation of new federations, such as a "blue archipelago" of liberal cities and regions, and more autonomous red zones. An EU-like arrangement with open borders and economic coordination could help minimize disruption and maintain some level of cooperation.

Conclusion: A path forward

While the idea of secession is radical, it is a reflection of the deep dissatisfaction many Americans feel with the current political system. The growing support for radical changes, including secession, suggests that the status quo is unsustainable. As Lutz puts it, "There has never been a case of reunification after secession." The challenge for leaders and citizens alike is to find a path that respects the diverse values and aspirations of all Americans, even if it means a painful but necessary restructuring of the nation. America's friends and allies need to understand that the United States has become a Disunited States. The 2024 election was just another battle in a longer war over the soul of the nation. Gone are the days when the people were united, despite politics. Now, we have intolerance, a lot of emotion and a lack of acceptance, even though the system is still working as designed -- built in checks and balances with the parties essentially taking turns at being in power. Whether through reform, decentralization, or secession, the time for radical change is upon us. The question is not whether the U.S. will change, but how it will change, and who will lead the way. Sources include: TheDailyBell.com ChathumHouse.org NewRepublic.com