Introduction
When Donald Trump descended his golden escalator in 2015, critics dismissed him as a joke. Nine years later, he’s left American democracy in peril. With fresh allegations of election interference, incendiary rhetoric, and an unwavering GOP base, one question lingers: Is anyone really surprised?
How Trump Eroded Democratic Norms
From Day One, Trump shattered presidential precedents:
– Attacking the media as “the enemy of the people.”
– Pressuring the DOJ to target political rivals.
– Praising autocrats (Putin, Kim Jong-un) while snubbing allies.
– Rejecting the 2020 election, inciting the January 6 insurrection—a wake-up call for democracy’s fragility.
Now, as he eyes a 2024 comeback, the stakes aren’t just about Trump—it’s whether America will tolerate a leader who treats democracy as disposable.
The GOP’s Dangerous Enablement
Trump’s rise isn’t shocking—the Republican Party’s surrender is. Once the party of Reagan, the GOP now bows to Trump’s cult of personality:
– Post-January 6 backtracking: Mitch McConnell called Trump “morally responsible” but now supports his 2024 run.
– Election denialism: State Republicans push voting restrictions based on Trump’s “Big Lie.”
– Power over principle: Loyalty to Trump trumps democracy itself.
Why the World Is Watching
America’s democratic decline has global consequences:
– Lost moral authority: How can the U.S. champion democracy abroad while flirting with autocracy at home?
– Authoritarian playbook: Dictators cite Trump’s tactics to justify their own power grabs.
Will Apathy or Accountability Win?
Despite overwhelming evidence, many still believe the 2020 election was stolen. Media outlets often frame Trump’s chaos as entertainment, normalizing threats to democracy. But democracy isn’t self-sustaining—it requires action.
The Road Ahead
Trump didn’t create America’s divisions, but he exploited them ruthlessly. The silver lining? His extremism has mobilized defenders of democracy. Progressives, conservatives, and grassroots groups are fighting back—but voter turnout and accountability are critical.
The ultimate question: Will Americans let Trump finish what he started?
— Emma Brockes for NextMinuteNews
