The US is a very robust set of checks and balances. The institutions are still very strong. I do like our ability to run until you're voted out. The head of state 2-term policy is a strange one for me. Beyond that, I think you are on the right track.
The democratic institutions need to hold the elected officials more constitution, I think report cards would help. I still don't understand why we can't create projects that have a tax to pay for them that sunsets once the total, plus matainance is collected.