Donald Trump is a danger to US democracy, but the resistance is working, according to Kenneth Roth, a Guardian US columnist and former executive director of Human Rights Watch. He argues that while Trump has made dangerous inroads in his push toward autocracy, the prospects for his success are dimming due to a robust system of checks and balances and widespread opposition.
Historical Context and Current Threat
Roth notes that the United States has faced challenges to democracy before, from Jim Crow to the McCarthy era. However, Trump's efforts to chip away at executive constraints are serious. He is implementing the classic autocrat's playbook, but in most cases, opposition has been significant.
Congress and Courts
The Republican-led Congress has been disappointing, largely bowing to Trump's will on tax cuts and healthcare, but recently opposing a slush fund and voter suppression. The courts have a mixed record: over 300 lawsuits have challenged Trump actions, many temporarily successful. The Supreme Court, despite a 6-3 pro-Trump majority, blocked tariffs, mail-in voting limits, and birthright citizenship restrictions.
Media and Civil Society
The media remains strong despite Trump's libel suits and regulatory pressure. Independent voices like the New York Times and the Guardian persist. Universities have largely weathered the storm, with Harvard suing the administration. Civil society groups like the ACLU lead lawsuits, and public protests like the 'No Kings' demonstrations show widespread discontent.
Public and Elections
The ultimate check is the voting public. Polls suggest Republicans face a shellacking in the midterms. Roth concludes that America's democracy is still kicking but must reaffirm core values: ideals over xenophobia, rule of law over lawlessness, national community over divisiveness, and respect for all individuals.
