Why economic inequality is the biggest threat to democracy | Sally Kohn

Authoritarianism is surging globally not because of its inherent strengths, but because democracy is failing to deliver tangible economic results for its citizens. When democratic systems prioritize political processes over the financial well-being of the population, they become vulnerable to autocratic capture. To combat this, democracy must evolve into a "3.0" phase, where economic justice is treated as a fundamental component of the system rather than a separate concern. This shift requires policies that ensure broad-based opportunity, such as strengthening labor unions, taxing wealth more equitably, and removing money from politics. By aligning political voice with economic power, democracy can move beyond mere procedural participation to provide meaningful, life-improving outcomes, ultimately securing its future against the appeal of authoritarian alternatives.