In the first weeks of the Trump administration, signs of a path to authoritarian rule have emerged, according to Erwin Chemerinsky, author of “No Democracy Lasts Forever.” In his study of how democracies die, he notes that elected rulers often consolidate authority, silence critics, and violate laws with impunity. Checks and balances are being eroded in the current administration, with President Trump ignoring federal statutes and court rulings, and purging government officials who do not show loyalty to him.
Chemerinsky highlights concerns about the president’s ability to control federal spending, ignore laws, and intimidate or remove experienced government employees. He also points to attacks on court rulings, media censorship, and a chilling effect on public dissent. While he remains hopeful that the courts and Congress will push back against authoritarian actions, he warns that silence and complacency in the face of such threats can erode the foundations of democracy.
The erosion of democratic norms and institutions under the Trump administration is a cause for alarm, as it sets a dangerous precedent for future leaders. Chemerinsky urges vigilance and resistance to authoritarian tendencies, emphasizing the importance of upholding the rule of law and preserving democracy for future generations.
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