State of the Unions

As the dust settles from the US presidential elections, the “State of the Unions” event, co-hosted by FEPS and the German Marshall Fund, provided a pivotal forum to analyse and debate the elections’ outcomes. This year’s event offered a timely opportunity to delve into the evolving dynamics of US domestic politics, and their ripple effects on the transatlantic relationship. With leaders and experts from both sides of the Atlantic, we explored how the election results will shape policies and strategies, influencing not only US-EU relations but also the global geopolitical landscape.

The event was divided into two sessions:

Session I: A Polarised Democracy and the Future of US Politics

This panel scrutinised the results of the US presidential and congressional elections, focusing on the internal political shifts and policy changes that will follow. We examined the implications for governance, legislative priorities, and party dynamics within the US. As the country navigates post-election transitions, our expert panel provided insights into the evolving political landscape and what it means for America’s future trajectory.

Guiding questions:

• How will the election results reshape the internal political dynamics and party alignments within the US?
• How do we interpret the vote? What are the major determining factors in people’s choice in this election?
• What are the anticipated policy shifts in key areas such as healthcare, immigration, foreign policy and climate change?

Session II: Transatlantic Tides: US Elections Results and Their Impact on EU-US Relations and the Global Order   

In this panel, we explored the broader implications of the US presidential and congressional election results on the transatlantic relationship and global stability. Key topics included the future of multilateralism, responses to international conflicts, and cooperation on global challenges such as climate change, trade, and economic recovery. Our discussion aimed to uncover how new US leadership will engage with the EU and other global partners in shaping a stable and prosperous world order.

Guiding questions:

• How will the US election results influence the future of US-EU cooperation on trade, defense, and security?
• What are the potential impacts on multilateral institutions and agreements, including NATO and the Paris Agreement?
• How might the election outcomes affect US-EU approaches to global conflicts and peacekeeping missions?
• In what ways can the US and EU collaborate to address global challenges like climate change, pandemics, and economic instability?
• What are the implications for transatlantic relations in the context of rising global powers and shifting alliances?

For more details regarding the project and this event, please contact Thainá Leite, Project Management Coordinator, at thaina.leite@feps-europe.eu.