Fact Check: Trump's policies will lead to a world more conducive to authoritarianism.

Fact Check: "Trump's policies will lead to a world more conducive to authoritarianism."

What We Know

The claim that Donald Trump's policies will lead to a world more conducive to authoritarianism is supported by various analyses and studies that highlight his actions and rhetoric during his presidency. According to a thesis by Gabe Fisher, Trump is described as "the most anti-democratic president in American history," citing his encouragement of violence at rallies, demands for loyalty, and attacks on the press, which evoke memories of historical autocrats (Fisher, 2021). Furthermore, Trump's refusal to accept the results of the 2020 election and his incitement of the January 6 insurrection are seen as significant threats to democratic norms (Fisher, 2021).

A recent opinion piece in The New York Times argues that Trump's administration has systematically undermined democracy, with policies that reflect a broader agenda to consolidate power and wealth among the elite while disregarding democratic principles (NYT, 2025). This includes arbitrary firings of government officials, attacks on independent judiciary processes, and the use of executive power to bypass Congress, which collectively contribute to a destabilization of democratic institutions (NYT, 2025).

Moreover, journalist Anne Applebaum points out that Trump's dismantling of the civil service system and his attacks on judges and political opponents are indicative of a regime change towards authoritarianism (NPR, 2025). These actions align with characteristics typically associated with authoritarian leaders, such as the suppression of dissent and the erosion of institutional checks and balances.

Analysis

The evidence presented in various sources supports the assertion that Trump's policies and actions have contributed to an environment more conducive to authoritarianism. The thesis by Fisher provides a comprehensive overview of Trump's anti-democratic tendencies, emphasizing the historical context of his actions (Fisher, 2021). This source is credible as it is an academic thesis that has undergone scrutiny and is published in an open-access format.

The New York Times opinion piece, while subjective, is authored by reputable journalists and reflects the views of political analysts who have studied Trump's impact on democracy (NYT, 2025). It highlights the systemic issues arising from Trump's governance, such as the undermining of democratic norms and institutions, which are critical in evaluating the claim.

Applebaum's commentary further corroborates the argument by detailing specific actions taken by Trump that align with authoritarian practices (NPR, 2025). Her position as an established journalist and historian specializing in authoritarian regimes lends credibility to her analysis.

However, it is important to note that some sources argue against the notion that Trump has fully consolidated authoritarian rule, suggesting that the resilience of American democratic institutions may prevent such an outcome (Foreign Affairs, 2025). This perspective emphasizes the complexity of the situation, indicating that while Trump exhibits authoritarian tendencies, the complete transition to an authoritarian state is not guaranteed.

Conclusion

The claim that "Trump's policies will lead to a world more conducive to authoritarianism" is True. The evidence from multiple credible sources indicates that Trump's actions and policies have systematically undermined democratic norms and institutions, fostering an environment where authoritarianism could flourish. The historical context, coupled with the analysis of his governance style, supports the assertion that his presidency poses significant risks to democratic integrity.

Fact Check: Trump's policies will lead to a world more conducive to authoritarianism.