The article discusses the rapid shift of the United States toward authoritarianism and fascism, particularly under President Donald Trump’s administration. The author, Garrett Graff, argues that this transformation has not happened through a single moment but is marked by a series of gradual erosions of democratic norms. He suggests that recent events, including the military occupation of Washington, D.C., and aggressive tactics against political opponents, reflect a move towards an autocracy reminiscent of historical fascist regimes.
Graff emphasizes that Trump’s actions—using armed National Guard soldiers, threatening opposition governors, and employing federal law enforcement against dissent—represent a serious abuse of power. He draws parallels between current governance and historical grievances outlined in the Declaration of Independence, asserting that the current political landscape shows an alarming disregard for constitutional safeguards.
Moreover, he critiques both Congress and the Supreme Court for enabling these developments. The Democratic response is deemed insufficient, as party leaders fail to effectively oppose Trump’s encroachment on democracy. Graff concludes that America’s political landscape has fundamentally changed, suggesting a bleak outlook for the future as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary. The story of recovery from this moment remains uncertain, but the author warns that even if recovery occurs, the nation will never return to its previous democratic state.
