Foreign Policy Live Trump vs. the Courts: Lessons From Abroad
Apr 4, 2025
Andrew O’Donohue, a political scientist specializing in democratic backsliding, discusses the alarming similarities between the Trump administration's treatment of the judiciary and the tactics of authoritarian regimes worldwide. He highlights the crucial role of judicial independence and civil society in resisting executive overreach. O'Donohue draws parallels with countries like Israel and Turkey, where populist leaders have similarly challenged judicial authority. This insightful conversation sheds light on the fragile state of democracy and the importance of protecting the rule of law globally.
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US Judicial Crisis
- The US executive branch is aggressively challenging judicial constraints on its power.
- This attack on the courts is unusually swift and severe, mirroring authoritarian governments.
Israel's Judicial Crisis
- In 2023, Netanyahu's government attempted a swift attack on Israeli courts.
- Societal protests and support from non-elected officials protected the courts.
Brazil's Judicial Resistance
- Brazilian President Bolsonaro threatened to impeach judges and defy rulings.
- Elected officials, including mayors and governors, supported the courts, demonstrating the importance of a united front.
