What does the authoritarian playbook entail under the ‘Rule of the Lawless’? | US Politics
TL/DR –
Donald Trump’s potential second term could lead to authoritarianism in the US, according to historian and professor of Italian studies Ruth Ben-Ghiat. Ben-Ghiat identifies that Trump’s tactics of demonizing immigrants, portraying himself as a victim, and trying to discredit the media are in line with an “authoritarian playbook.” As she comments on the threat of authoritarianism in the US, she also mentions the recent Supreme Court ruling that strengthens presidential immunity from criminal prosecution as a precursor to Trump enacting his plan.
Trump’s Second Term May Risk Democracy, Warns Authoritarianism Expert
Donald Trump’s remark about becoming “dictator on day one” if elected for a second term is a serious threat, warn experts on authoritarianism. The recent Supreme Court ruling giving presidents broad immunity from criminal prosecution heightens such concerns. “It is a democratic emergency,” declares Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a historian and Italian studies professor.
In her latest book, Strongmen: Mussolini to the Present, Ben-Ghiat outlines how democracies can fall prey to authoritarians. She connects Trump’s tactics of maligning immigrants, playing the victim, and discrediting the media to this global trend.
Trump’s recent empowerment by the Supreme Court raises questions about what to expect. Ben-Ghiat explains that, like other authoritarians, Trump seeks power to evade criminal charges. The immunity granted by the court aligns with the autocratic fantasy.
Ben-Ghiat further notes Trump’s indulgence in violence fantasies, making him a uniquely dangerous figure. His admiration for foreign leaders such as Xi and Putin stem from their ability to execute people and face no consequences.
In terms of countering authoritarianism, Ben-Ghiat emphasizes the urgent need for education on the potential outcomes if Trump returned to power. She insists, “It is a democratic emergency.”
The Guardian conducted a comprehensive interview with Ben-Ghiat about the contemporary threat of authoritarianism in the US.
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