Fact Check: TRump is following the authoritarian playbook

Fact Check: "Trump is following the authoritarian playbook"

What We Know

Donald Trump's political style has been characterized by many scholars and researchers as aligning with authoritarian populism. According to a study from UC Berkeley's Othering & Belonging Institute, this style includes traits such as fearmongering, scapegoating marginalized groups, and undermining democratic norms, including the persecution of journalists (source-1). The researchers note that authoritarian populists often frame societal issues as a struggle between a virtuous in-group and an evil out-group, justifying extreme measures to protect their supporters (source-1).

Furthermore, a survey of over 500 political scientists revealed a consensus that the U.S. is moving toward some form of authoritarianism, with many attributing this shift to Trump's actions during his presidency. The survey indicated a significant drop in the perceived health of American democracy, from a score of 67 to 55, shortly after Trump's election (source-2). Scholars have noted that Trump's attempts to expand executive power and undermine checks and balances are indicative of a slide toward authoritarianism (source-2).

Analysis

The claim that Trump is following an authoritarian playbook is supported by various credible sources. The concept of authoritarian populism as defined by the UC Berkeley research provides a framework for understanding Trump's political maneuvers. This framework highlights how Trump has utilized populist rhetoric to create an "us versus them" narrative, often targeting immigrants and other marginalized groups as scapegoats for societal problems (source-1).

Moreover, the Bright Line Watch survey, which assesses the state of American democracy, indicates that many political scientists view Trump's presidency as a significant factor in the erosion of democratic norms (source-2). This perspective is echoed in various analyses that describe Trump's governance as a blend of populism and authoritarian tactics, such as attacking the media and undermining electoral integrity (source-4).

The reliability of these sources is bolstered by their academic and journalistic rigor. The UC Berkeley study is grounded in extensive research, while the Bright Line Watch survey is conducted by political scientists who specialize in democracy and authoritarianism. Both sources provide a nuanced understanding of the dynamics at play in Trump's political strategy.

Conclusion

The claim that "Trump is following the authoritarian playbook" is True. Evidence from academic research and expert surveys indicates that Trump's political style aligns with the characteristics of authoritarian populism, which includes undermining democratic norms, scapegoating marginalized groups, and consolidating power. The consensus among political scientists regarding the decline of American democracy during Trump's presidency further supports this conclusion.