This is the Guardian.

Today, a journey across Florida and into the heart of the issues plaguing American democracy.

So, Oli, how was Disney World?

It was a pleasant experience. It hasn't been pleasant in many months previous to my visit.

Oliver Lockland is Guardian US's southern bureau chief.

A job that takes him to lots of interesting places.

When we went, we were under strict instructions from Disney that we were not allowed to ask

any questions inside the theme park. So basically, we got to wander around, we did go on one ride,

and that was about it, really. Which ride was that?

I went on the pirate to the Caribbean right away.

He was there for a good reason. It's an election year in the US.

And even the happiest place on earth hasn't been spared.

When you're kind of walking around and watching how people are interacting with the park and that

sort of thing, it doesn't really seem like anything has changed. But obviously, as we know, given

Disney itself being kind of plunged into the epicenter of Florida's culture wars, that is definitely not the case.

The presidential elections are, thank God, still two years away.

But this November, Americans will vote in hundreds of elections for seats in the US Congress,

governors mansions, and state houses across the country.

At a time when fears are growing about political violence, with an attack last week on the

husband of the US speaker, Nancy Pelosi, these elections matter a huge amount.

If they go badly for the Democrats, Joe Biden's agenda for the next two years might never get off

the ground. And that's not all.

...