Letters from an American Live with Heather Cox Richardson
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Sep 18, 2025 In a riveting conversation, a U.S. Senator discusses the urgent need for the Protecting Our Democracy Act amid rising threats to democratic institutions. They delve into the alarming slide towards authoritarianism, highlighting issues like presidential self-enrichment and the enforcement of emoluments. The senator emphasizes the importance of restoring congressional oversight and civic engagement. They also explore how partisanship is eroding institutional checks, advocating for proactive steps like protests and community support to uphold democracy.
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Perilous Slide Toward Authoritarianism
- The senator warns the country is on a swift slide toward authoritarianism with novel abuses unseen in Trump's first term.
- She urges daily mitigation of harms until a future day when democratic norms can be restored.
Policy Harm Paired With Personal Profit
- The senator links Trump's policies to concrete economic harm for ordinary Americans while his personal wealth soars.
- She argues that self-enrichment amid public suffering intensifies public outrage and political consequence.
Origins Of The Protecting Our Democracy Act
- The senator describes creating the Protecting Our Democracy Act after discussions mid-first Trump term and working with Speaker Pelosi.
- The House passed the first version but it stalled in the Senate, prompting a strengthened second iteration.