This episode explores the state of American democracy under Donald Trump's second term, questioning whether the U.S. is sliding towards authoritarianism. Against the backdrop of political scientists downgrading America's democracy score, the episode features interviews with scholars and individuals from authoritarian countries, revealing their concerns about tactics reminiscent of their homelands, such as the detention of a student activist. More significantly, the discussion pivots to the concept of "competitive authoritarianism," where democratically elected leaders reshape the state to maximize executive power by filling key positions with loyalists and attacking critical media and universities. The episode draws parallels between the Trump administration's actions and the strategies employed by leaders in Turkey and Hungary, such as Recep Tayyip Erdoğan and Viktor Orban, who have consolidated power by targeting the media, universities, and courts. In contrast, some scholars argue that concerns about autocracy in America are overblown, pointing to the checks and balances within the U.S. system and the lack of overwhelming popular support for radical changes. Despite differing viewpoints, the episode concludes with a call to action, urging Americans to believe in their neighbors and the fundamental yearning for democracy and human rights, emphasizing that even if the U.S. doesn't fully transition to authoritarianism, the long-term effects of current governance could profoundly alter American norms and threaten the rule of law.
