Artists under pressure: Schlink compares the USA with the Gleichschaltung in 1933

Artists under pressure: Schlink compares the USA with the Gleichschaltung in 1933

In recent days, prominent figures such as the writer Daniel Kehlmann and the author Bernhard Schlink have raised concerned voices about the current state of culture in the USA. Deutschlandfunk reports that Kehlmann points to drastic cuts in government funding for institutions such as *Voice of America* and for theater performances. These economic cuts not only pose a threat to the arts, but also put artists in a difficult position as they have to worry about how their statements might be interpreted by the current political leadership.

Schlink, who is concerned about restrictions on freedom of expression, compares the situation with the Gleichschaltung in Germany in 1933. In his opinion, state coercion and social obedience have reached worrying proportions in the USA. He also expressed considerable doubts about the fairness of future elections and criticized Donald Trump for weakening or even destroying institutions that safeguard the democratic order. Universities and large law firms are forced to adapt to Trump's line in order not to get the red card and lose funding.

A look at the political structure of the USA

But how does politics actually work in the United States? ZDF explains that the White House is the official residence of the US President, who, together with Congress and the Supreme Court, controls state power. Congress is made up of the House of Representatives and the Senate and ensures that the president's power is not excessively concentrated.

The next presidential election is on November 5, 2024, while Joe Biden will remain in office until January 20, 2025. The term of office of a president is four years, but re-election is possible. A notable aspect of American politics is that Congress makes laws and therefore has a direct influence on government spending, which is particularly important in times of crisis.

The role of control and transparency

In Germany, however, the Bundestag is responsible for passing laws and controlling the federal government. Bundestag explains that MPs must be informed about government spending because it involves tax money. During Question Time, MPs have the opportunity to ask questions of ministers, who are obliged to provide answers - a fundamental element of political transparency.

Developments in the United States shed light on the need for control and transparency to maintain a democratic society. In a climate in which state institutions are coming under pressure, one can only hope that the voice of art and culture does not fall silent and that democracy retains its roots. It remains to be seen what direction US politics will take after the upcoming elections and how the cultural landscape will evolve.