US at 250: Separation vs. concentration of power – America’s enduring constitutional debate
17 September 2026, 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Location: Online / Chatham House, 10 St James's Square, London SW1Y 4LE
Think tank: Chatham House
This event hosted by UK think tank Chatham House explores how checks and balances continue to shape American democracy.
As the United States approaches the 250th anniversary of its Constitution, debate is growing over whether power remains balanced across government institutions. The US constitutional system faces scrutiny amid disputes over executive, judicial and administrative authority. These debates raise broader questions about the resilience of the US constitutional system.
This event discusses:
- How has the separation of powers evolved over the past 250 years?
- Does the Constitution effectively prevent the concentration of power?
- What impact have the administrative state and judiciary had on institutional balance?
- Which reforms could strengthen accountability and constitutional resilience?
- How well is the Constitution equipped to meet future political challenges?
Speakers
Event chaired by Laurel Rapp.
Laurel Rapp – Director, US and North America Programme, Chatham House
Professor Rosa Brooks – The Scott K Ginsburg Professor of Law and Policy, Georgetown University
Jane Harman – Former Member of the U.S. House of Representatives from California’s 36th district
