What happens if a player in the democratic game cannot tolerate the idea of losing? What if players demonise each other to the extent that they present rivals as existential threats to the nation’s survival. As the US deals in a surprisingly order poll, and results keep the race competitive, what should outsiders keep they eye on? Melisa Idris and Sharaad Kuttan speak to Derick Becker is Assistant Professor of Politics and International Relations at University of Nottingham Malaysia.