Middle East Focus
Rethinking Democracy Ep. 5: Impact of Donald Trump’s Election on American Democracy and the World with Ruth Ben-Ghiat and Larry Diamond
Dec 5, 2024
Larry Diamond, Mosbacher Senior Fellow at Stanford, and Ruth Ben-Ghiat, NYU Professor specializing in authoritarianism, delve into the implications of Donald Trump's recent election on democracy. They discuss the increasing challenges to liberal values and draw historical parallels with Mussolini's rise. The duo examines the psychological roots of Trump’s appeal, the normalization of militarization under authoritarian leaders, and how his governance might shape global democratic trends. Their insights highlight the urgent state of democracy today.
48:54
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Quick takeaways
- Trump's election signifies a troubling trend towards autocracy, raising concerns about the resilience of American democratic institutions amidst rising public distrust.
- Historical examples of authoritarianism, particularly Mussolini's rise, illustrate how societal anxieties can empower populist leaders to challenge liberal democracy.
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Global Democratic Context
2024 marked a significant year for global elections, with approximately 4 billion people voting across more than 60 countries, showcasing a vital moment for democracy worldwide. Despite a rise in voter participation, the results present a mixed picture for liberal democracy, particularly with the implications of the U.S. elections. The recent elections in Poland and Turkey reflect both setbacks and hopeful indicators as opposition movements gain traction against authoritarian regimes. However, the election of Donald Trump in the U.S. amidst these changes raises concerns over the future of democracy, suggesting that the global momentum towards democratic renewal may face significant challenges.
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