Democracy depends on the consent of the losers. For most of the 20th century, parties and candidates in the United States have competed in elections with the understanding that electoral defeats are neither permanent nor intolerable. ... The stakes could feel high, but rarely existential.
In recent years, however, beginning before the election of Donald Trump and accelerating since, that has changed.
A new Democratic administration would have the chance to advance liberal values at home—but they need a new foreign-policy toolbox to make it work.