The Biden administration is, many Australians believe, a leader that is supportive of Australia. We share similar values. Not to mention deep defensive and security co-operation, and extensive trade and investment.

But, over the last few months, the American political system has become so dysfunctional that it’s in danger of acting against its own interests. Which could, in turn, threaten us, too.

Today, our international and political editor Peter Hartcher on why the usual chaos in American congress that we have often witnessed from afar, might come to impact us for a long time to come.