The Rachman Review Donald Trump and autocracy in America
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Nov 6, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, historian Anne Applebaum delves into the implications of Trump's presidency and the rise of authoritarianism. She analyzes how January 6 shifted Trump's supporter base towards radicalism and reveals the ambitions of Project 2025 to fast-track controversial policies. Applebaum highlights the erosion of democratic norms through tactics like voter manipulation and using state institutions against opponents. She also examines the climate of fear affecting institutions and Trump's admiration for strongmen like Putin and Xi, illustrating the shifting landscape of American politics.
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Radical Coalition And Project 2025
- Trump's second term attracts more radical allies who saw January 6 as proof of his willingness to break norms.
- Project 2025 organised a detailed plan to rapidly reshape the federal state once back in power.
Pushing Legal Boundaries As A Strategy
- The administration repeatedly pushes actions that are legally questionable and then defends them later in court.
- This tactic undermines institutions by normalising boundary-pushing behaviour.
Federal Pressure To Shape Elections
- The administration is actively trying to shape electoral outcomes via redistricting and voter-roll demands.
- These federal pressures on states represent a novel and direct attempt to tilt future elections.
