SPP student wins Phelan US Centre essay competition and presents at Parliament
The School of Public Policy is proud to celebrate the success of MPA/MGA double degree student Alexander Minford, who has been named the winner of the LSE Phelan US Centre’s 2026 Master’s Essay Competition.
The annual competition invited LSE Master’s students to respond to the question: what role can democratic citizenry play in shaping America’s role in the world as it enters its 250th year? Alexander’s winning essay, The most important act of American global leadership may be winning a local primary, stood out for its timely and thought-provoking analysis.
In his essay, Alexander argues that citizens seeking to influence America’s global role must begin by strengthening democratic institutions at home. Drawing on recent political movements and electoral examples, he explores how local engagement and participation in primary elections can shape national direction and, ultimately, international credibility.
As part of this achievement, Alexander was invited to present his work at a recent parliamentary event, where he shared his insights with policymakers, academics and fellow students. The occasion marked an important opportunity to showcase student research at the highest level and to contribute to wider discussions on democratic engagement and global leadership.
Reflecting on the experience, Alexander said:
“I entered the competition to test an argument I couldn't shake: that the most globally significant thing an American citizen can do might be winning a local election. Presenting that case to parliamentarians whose work depends on the transatlantic relationship, and having them push back and engage with it seriously, was the most rewarding academic experience of my time at LSE.”
Photo credit: Robin Boot
Alexander’s success reflects both the strength of student research at the School and the global relevance of the issues being explored within the SPP community. His work highlights the importance of active citizenship and offers a compelling perspective on the relationship between domestic democracy and international influence.
You can read Alexander’s full prize-winning essay here