Look You Mugs! I'm The Boss! See!

Donald Trump's autocratic aspirations have many challenges ahead. Where did he acquire these ambitions? Well, he is a businessman from the private sector and that is how most business people operate. They rule. Did you think he was going to change and be controlled by popular opinion and the representative decision process? Excuse me while I try not laugh.

Donald Trump has often been characterized as having autocratic tendencies, displaying a desire for centralized control and a disregard for traditional democratic norms. His leadership style, which has been marked by a penchant for unilateral decision-making and a dismissive attitude towards dissent, raises concerns about the potential for authoritarian governance. However, despite his ambitions, a multitude of factors stand in the way of his pursuit of autocracy.

One of the most significant barriers to Trump's autocratic aspirations is the system of checks and balances embedded in the United States government. The Constitution establishes a framework wherein the executive, legislative, and judicial branches operate independently, each with the power to limit the others. This separation of powers is designed to prevent any single branch from accumulating excessive power. For instance, Congress has the authority to pass legislation, approve budgets, and conduct oversight of the executive branch, all of which can serve to curtail Trump's initiatives if they are deemed overreaching or unconstitutional. The problem here is that when both houses are of the same party and under the thumb of someone like Trump, things can become difficult for controlling his impulsive behavior. Of course, the answer to that problem is the voting process.

The judiciary also plays a critical role in safeguarding democratic principles. Courts have the power to interpret laws and decide disputes, often stepping in to check executive actions that may violate constitutional rights. Trump's previous attempts to implement controversial policies, such as the travel ban targeting several predominantly Muslim countries, faced significant legal challenges that ultimately limited his ability to act unilaterally. The judiciary's independence serves as a crucial counterweight to any autocratic inclinations he may exhibit. Again, the problem can be when the court has become politicized and can be used to help further a political agenda. There was the time when Franklin Roosevelt tried to pack the Supreme Court by adding more justices. Fortunately, that effort was blocked.

Public opinion is another formidable obstacle to Trump's ambitions. A significant portion of the American populace remains vigilant and actively engaged in the political process, often mobilizing against perceived threats to democracy. Grassroots movements, advocacy groups, and other organizations play an essential role in promoting democratic values and holding leaders accountable. Protests, public demonstrations, and organized campaigns can effectively challenge authoritarian tendencies, signaling to leaders that overreach will not be tolerated.

The role of the media cannot be understated in this context. A free and independent press serves as a watchdog, investigating government actions and exposing abuses of power. Investigative journalism has the potential to shine a light on corruption, misconduct, and any authoritarian behaviors exhibited by public officials, including Trump. The constant scrutiny from the media can deter autocratic behavior by ensuring that leaders remain accountable to the public and must justify their actions. However, the constant criticism by Trump of the media is an effort by him to normalize the perception that they cannot be trusted.

Additionally, the presence of a strong political opposition is vital in countering any drift towards autocracy. The Democratic Party and various other political factions provide an alternative voice in the political landscape, advocating for democratic governance and the protection of civil liberties. This opposition can mobilize voters, challenge policies, and create coalitions that resist authoritarian measures.

The electoral process itself serves as a mechanism for accountability, allowing citizens to express their preferences through voting and potentially replace leaders who exhibit autocratic tendencies. Efforts by Trump to constantly raise the belief that the voting process is flawed only serves to plant the seed of doubt and distrust in the process of choosing new leaders. This is an old tacit used by all autocratic rulers and all dictators. Can that tactic succeed in this country? It would be difficult, but vigilance is still needed to be sure these efforts do not take root.

Lastly, the international setting plays a significant role in shaping domestic political behavior. The United States is part of a global community that values democratic governance and human rights. Autocratic tendencies within the U.S. could provoke backlash not only domestically but also internationally.  Allies and international organizations may respond to perceived authoritarianism by imposing sanctions, withdrawing support, or condemning actions that undermine democratic institutions.

While Trump may aspire to consolidate power in an autocratic manner, numerous factors—including institutional checks and balances, judicial oversight, active public opinion, media scrutiny, political opposition, and international pressures—serve as barriers to his ambitions. These combined elements contribute to the resilience of American democracy.

Jack Wilson

Opinion