Donald Trump has been a polarizing figure in American politics since he announced his candidacy in 2015. But beyond the controversy and bombast, there is a growing consensus among scholars, political analysts, and even national security experts that Trump poses a genuine threat to democracy. From his attacks on democratic institutions to his undermining of electoral processes, Trump’s actions have raised serious concerns about the future of American governance.
Erosion of Democratic Norms
One of the primary ways Trump threatens democracy is through his consistent disregard for democratic norms. The Brookings Institution highlights that Trump’s behavior deviates significantly from the expectations of a democratic leader. He has routinely undermined the press, referring to journalists as the “enemy of the people,” a phrase reminiscent of authoritarian regimes. Free and fair press is a cornerstone of democracy, and when a leader seeks to delegitimize it, they chip away at one of the most essential checks on power.
Further, Trump has attacked the judiciary, questioning the impartiality of judges who rule against him. This undermines the independence of the judicial branch, a key pillar in maintaining a balance of power.
Undermining Election Integrity
Perhaps one of the most dangerous aspects of Trump’s legacy is his role in undermining confidence in elections. The Intercept reports that Trump’s false claims about widespread voter fraud in the 2020 election fueled distrust in the electoral process. His baseless allegations were repeatedly debunked, yet he persisted in spreading them, culminating in the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.
These actions are not just harmful rhetoric—they are a direct attack on the foundations of democracy. A system that relies on free and fair elections can’t survive if the public no longer trusts the results. Trump’s persistent refusal to accept the legitimacy of the 2020 election and his continued assertions that the 2024 election might be “rigged” raise alarms about future electoral stability.
Cultivating Authoritarianism
Trump’s leadership style has been frequently compared to that of authoritarian figures. The Hill emphasizes that a second Trump presidency would pose an “existential national security threat to our democracy.” His willingness to wield power without accountability, combined with a disregard for democratic institutions, aligns with authoritarian tendencies. For instance, Trump has openly admired dictators such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, praising their strength while downplaying their human rights abuses.
By embracing these authoritarian figures and rejecting the constraints of democratic governance, Trump signals a potential future in which he would seek to consolidate power further, bypassing the very structures designed to prevent such concentration.
The January 6 Insurrection
The violent attack on the Capitol on January 6, 2021, is perhaps the most vivid example of how Trump’s rhetoric and actions pose a threat to democracy. Lawfare Media describes the insurrection as a direct consequence of Trump’s lies about a stolen election. His calls to “fight like hell” led to violent clashes as his supporters sought to stop the certification of the 2020 election results.
This event was not just a protest; it was a dangerous attempt to overturn a democratic election by force. Trump’s role in inciting this violence makes it clear that his actions go beyond mere political posturing. They represent a direct assault on democratic institutions.
Threat to National Security
National security experts have raised additional concerns about Trump’s threat to democracy. The Financial Times notes that Trump’s erratic behavior, especially regarding classified information, poses a serious risk. In particular, his handling of sensitive intelligence during his presidency has raised alarms about what a second term could mean for the country’s security.
Furthermore, Trump’s disdain for alliances like NATO and his coziness with adversarial nations signal a potential weakening of the democratic alliances that have maintained global stability since World War II.
What’s at Stake
The threat posed by Trump isn’t limited to political squabbles. As The Brookings Institution points out, democracy itself is at risk. Trump has shown a clear willingness to use his influence to undermine elections, erode democratic institutions, and place his personal power above the national interest. A second Trump presidency could see further erosion of the democratic guardrails that have kept American governance functioning for centuries.
The concerns raised by experts are not just theoretical. Trump’s actions have already weakened public trust in core democratic institutions. If these trends continue, the U.S. could face a democratic crisis that goes beyond the next election cycle.
Trump’s refusal to accept electoral defeat, his undermining of democratic norms, and his authoritarian tendencies make him a unique threat to American democracy. As scholars and national security experts warn, the stakes have never been higher.
