Full Story Has Trump succeeded in normalising American autocracy?
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Sep 7, 2025 Andrew Roth, a seasoned global affairs correspondent for The Guardian based in Washington, D.C., delves into the concerning trend of authoritarianism in the United States since Trump returned to power. He discusses alarming shifts in the balance between federal and local law enforcement, highlighting the implications for democracy. Roth also examines grassroots movements working against political fatigue, raising questions about election integrity and the normalization of autocratic behavior. Is America at a point of no return for democratic values?
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Scholars Warn Of Democratic Erosion
- Scholars increasingly say the US is moving toward an authoritarian model under Trump rather than remaining a traditional democracy.
- Guardrails meant to prevent democratic erosion are weakening quickly after nine months of this administration.
Rapid Sequence Of Intimidating Events
- Multiple high-profile events compressed into days create a sense of rapid authoritarian shift in the US.
- Televised sycophantic displays and raids on critics amplify comparisons to other autocratic regimes.
Televised Cabinet Flattery
- Andrew Roth recalls watching a three hour and 17 minute televised cabinet meeting praising Trump nonstop.
- He says the over-the-top flattery resembled behavior he'd seen around dictators abroad.