Bolduc Brief: Examining the Decline of the Republic and Democracy

After watching the outcomes of the Davos economic forum, I was struck by the reaction to President Trump’s words and actions. From a domestic and international security perspective, I find this very concerning and worth examining through the lens of declining support for the democratic principles that underpin our constitutional republic.

The decline of the democratic principles that support our republic has become a pressing concern across various regions of the world, alarming political scholars, analysts, and citizens alike. This erosion of democratic norms is not merely a backdrop for political discourse; it represents a profound crisis driven by interconnected factors such as rising authoritarianism, the manipulation of electoral processes, and increased societal polarization. Within this framework, the Trump administration has consistently demonstrated characteristics that align with these troubling trends, prompting important discussions about how its actions may be perceived as “checking all the boxes” associated with democratic backsliding.

Factors Contributing to the Decline of Democracy

1. Authoritarian Populism: The emergence of authoritarian populist leaders reflects a tendency to exploit societal grievances for political gain. These leaders often present themselves as champions of “the people,” all while systematically undermining the institutions that are essential for democratic governance. By consolidating power and circumventing traditional checks and balances, they set a worrying precedent for future governance and erode the foundation of democratic principles.

2. Erosion of Democratic Norms: In numerous democratic nations, including the United States, the gradual erosion of democratic norms is alarmingly visible. Attacks on the press and journalists, judiciary, and electoral integrity illustrate an intentional strategy to undermine accountability mechanisms. This not only weakens the institutions that are vital for upholding democracy but also fosters a climate of distrust, resulting in citizens becoming increasingly disenchanted from engaging in civic processes.

3. Political Polarization: The rise of extreme partisanship across the political spectrum has fragmented societies, creating an environment where consensus-building becomes increasingly elusive. Political polarization fosters discord not only among constituents but also amongst elected officials, who may prioritize party loyalty over the public interest. Consequently, governance resembles a zero-sum game, where the opposition is perceived not as a legitimate partner but as an adversary to be vanquished.

The Trump Administration’s Influence

The Trump administration stands as a notable case in the context of global democratic decline, exemplifying several dynamics that contribute to this phenomenon:

1. Attacks on the Media: The administration’s frequent labeling of unfavorable media coverage as “fake news” undermines public trust in journalism, which is a cornerstone of a healthy democracy. This antagonism not only stifles dissenting voices but also creates fertile ground for misinformation—an essential tool employed by authoritarian regimes to control narratives and manipulate public perception.

2. Diminishing Institutional Integrity: During the first 100 days of the second administration Trump has frequently displayed a willingness to undermine traditional checks and balances. This includes attempts to influence the judiciary, discredit independent investigations into misconduct, and question the integrity of electoral processes. Such strategies resonate with tactics used by leaders intent on weakening democratic institutions and consolidating power.

3. Fueling Divisiveness: Trump’s use of divisive rhetoric has exacerbated societal and political polarization. By framing political opponents as existential threats to the nation, he has contributed to an environment where collaboration is perceived as betrayal, reinforcing divisions that hinder productive dialogue and democratic engagement.

4. Populist Appeals: The administration’s rhetoric often aligns with populist sentiments, framing itself as an antidote to established political elites through slogans like “drain the swamp.” Unfortunately, this populist narrative has devolved into rhetoric and executive orders mirrors that exploit public dissatisfaction to justify the concentration of power and deviation from democratic norms.

5. Electoral Integrity Concerns: The administration’s consistent claims the election was stolen in 2020, only serves to exacerbate political party divisiveness. By casting doubt on the legitimacy of electoral outcomes, the administration has contributed to public confusion regarding the democratic process.