Key Takeaways

• Trump insists he won the 2024 election by a landslide, though his margin was just 1.5 percent.
• He downplayed the No Kings Day protests, yet millions joined 2,500 events nationwide.
• Recent polls show only 34 percent approve of Trump’s handling of inflation.
• Democratic strategist Simon Rosenberg warns Trump is in political and cognitive decline.
• Experts fear growing Trump authoritarianism as he feels more threatened.

Donald Trump keeps claiming he won the 2024 election by a massive margin. In reality, he led the popular vote by only about 1.5 percent. Moreover, he labeled the No Kings Day protests last weekend as tiny and marginal. However, organizers counted roughly 2,500 events across the country with millions of participants.

Clearly, Trump feels under pressure. Polls show just 34 percent of Americans approve of his handling of inflation. As a result, experts warn his attacks on opponents may grow harsher. They worry about increasing Trump authoritarianism.

Signs of Trump Authoritarianism in America

First, Trump’s tone has become angrier. He often lashes out at media outlets, top officials, and even judges. Second, his policy moves seem aimed more at silencing critics than solving problems. For instance, he has threatened to jail his former FBI director. Third, he hints at using the military and national security agencies against political foes. Together, these actions fit a pattern of Trump authoritarianism.

Meanwhile, public protests challenge his claims of broad support. The No Kings Day protests turned out far larger than expected. In New York City alone, MSNBC reporter Antonia Hylton saw a crowd that exceeded 200,000—way above the original estimate. Clearly, many Americans oppose Trump’s approach.

Why Trump Feels Threatened

Trump watches polls that show his popularity sliding. He sees voters unhappy with high prices and economic struggles. As a result, he feels he must prove strength. Therefore, he uses bold statements and harsh threats. However, this only deepens the perception of authoritarian intent. When leaders feel cornered, they often resort to extreme measures to hold power. In Trump’s case, experts warn this shift could erode democracy.

The No Kings Day Surprise

On October 18, cities nationwide held No Kings Day protests. Trump tried to dismiss them as small and poorly attended. Yet organizers reported around 2,500 marches. In Washington, Chicago, Los Angeles and hundreds of other towns, people marched by the thousands. They chanted for democracy and against dictatorship. The sheer scale proved Trump’s critics won’t stay silent. Moreover, the protests showcased the energy of those who fear Trump’s unchecked power.

Warnings from a Democratic Strategist

On the New Republic’s podcast, The Daily Blast, host Greg Sargent spoke with strategist Simon Rosenberg. Rosenberg stressed two points. First, Trump’s actions harm US institutions and may cause lasting damage. Second, Trump shows signs of decline—physically, mentally and politically. According to Rosenberg, Trump struggles to rally even his base around key policies.

Rosenberg pointed out that low poll numbers and mounting failures push Trump toward authoritarian ideas. He described a “vicious cycle of a failing strongman.” As Trump loses public support, he may resort to illiberal tactics to stay in power. This dynamic, Rosenberg warned, accelerates Trump authoritarianism.

The Vicious Cycle of a Failing Strongman

According to Rosenberg, when a leader fails, he feels the need to restore strength by any means. Trump’s team may turn to the military, law enforcement or legal threats against opponents. In extreme talk, Rosenberg mentioned threats of violence and jail time for critics. He said these are tactics to mask weakness.

Moreover, Trump’s harsh rhetoric and actions feed public fear. This, in turn, can justify more crackdowns. Experts call this a self-reinforcing loop: the more one fails, the more authoritarian one becomes. Unfortunately, America risks slipping from democracy toward autocracy if this cycle continues.

Moving Forward

To counter rising Trump authoritarianism, citizens must stay informed and engaged. Voting, peaceful protest and public pressure can slow illiberal shifts. At the same time, lawmakers and judges can uphold democratic rules. As Rosenberg urged, Americans need to act with vigor to protect institutions and win back power.

Ultimately, the fight is not just about one man. It’s about preserving democratic values and ensuring no leader goes unchecked. With awareness and action, citizens can stand against any threat to their freedoms.

FAQs

What does Trump say about the 2024 election results?

He claims he won by a landslide, even though he led the popular vote by only about 1.5 percent.

How big were the No Kings Day protests?

Organizers reported around 2,500 events with millions of participants nationwide. In New York City alone, the crowd surpassed 200,000.

Why do experts warn about Trump authoritarianism?

They note his harsh rhetoric, threats against opponents, and moves that threaten democratic norms when he feels pressured.

What can citizens do to protect democracy?

People can vote, join peaceful protests, support independent courts and hold leaders accountable through public pressure.