U.S. risks losing democratic status, warns global watchdog

A global watchdog has raised concerns that the United States may not qualify as a democracy in the near future. According to a new report from the Varieties of Democracy project, recent actions by President Donald Trump could lead to a significant decline in America’s democratic status. The report reveals troubling trends in global democracy. This year, the number of autocracies has overtaken democracies worldwide for the first time in two decades. Canada and the U.S. are currently classified as "Electoral Democracies," but the report's authors are worried about potential changes next year due to Trump's actions since he began his new presidential term. In recent days, Trump has made headlines for publicly challenging previous presidential pardons, calling for legal action against media outlets, and threatening universities with funding cuts. His recent use of a war measures law to expedite deportations without usual legal procedures has also raised alarms about his adherence to the rule of law. Staffan Lindberg, the project's director, noted that Trump’s approach resembles the rapid authoritarian shifts seen in Turkey, Hungary, and India. He warned that if such actions continue, the U.S. might be downgraded to an "electoral autocracy," where elections exist but with harsh consequences for dissent. Many experts are increasingly concerned about the role of the judiciary. Court decisions will be pivotal in either supporting or challenging Trump’s actions. Recent events, including Trump's controversial deportation efforts, are seen as tests of the system's resilience. Critics of Trump have voiced alarm over his rhetoric and actions, which they argue undermine democratic institutions. Some believe that the normalization of his behavior is troubling, pointing out that different reactions would occur if another president acted similarly. As the political landscape evolves, the relationship between Trump's administration and the courts will be vital in determining the future of U.S. democracy. Observers are closely watching how this situation develops.