Recently, former US Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg voiced deep concern about the country's future. He said the democratic system that has defined much of the nation's 250-year history is "on the brink," warning that the US is "on the brink of losing our democracy." He argued that growing economic inequality, followed by inequality of political power, has fueled political violence and eroded public trust. Buttigieg said meaningful reform of the political system is needed if the country is to address these challenges, warning that time is running out.