How Democratic Is American Democracy? Key Pillars Face Stress Tests The U.S. Capitol is seen on the morning of April 29. Stefani Reynolds / Getty Images The American political tradition enshrines majority rule, with rights for the minority. But some wonder whether the United States is sliding toward minority rule. More and more Democrats are saying the system is out of whack. Twice in the last 20 years, their presidential candidate got more votes but lost the election. And now that the 2022 redistricting cycle is beginning, Republicans in many states will be able to get fewer votes but end up with a majority of seats.