American politics is so polarized....

[Beet]

Many people say that it is the polarization that causes the deadlock in American politics.

I'd say it is the combination of a bicameral, consensus-oriented system with a polarized political system. In the Westminster system for example the polarization wouldn't be a problem. One of the parties would just implement their politics.

I don't see how that would end polarization as a problem. It would just unbalance the policy regime. The last time that happened was during the Civil War.

[Beet]

Yes, I understand how it works, but given the state of the present GOP, I think I'd rather have deadlock with all its 'checks and balances' than the prospect of a unitary government (even if it means some deadlock when Democrats are in the majority as well).