The Rise of American Autocracy: The Effect of Far-Right Policies on America's Democracy

Author: Matthew Betro

Field of Study: Social Sciences

Program Affiliation: Source Project Research Program

Faculty Mentors: Matthew Cole

Easel: 87

Timeslot: Morning

Abstract: Far-right ideologies and authoritarian insurgents rise to power through democratic backsliding. The reelection of Donald Trump has caused concern among many Americans because of his autocratic behavior, which is reflected in the policies he is attempting to implement, such as harsh immigration laws, tariffs, and ending birthright citizenship. This study analyzes how Trump’s behavior and policies reflect autocratic tendencies, discussing the severity of the far-right threat he poses to America. The analysis will occur by establishing a definition of democratic backsliding to compare Trump’s actions to understand how his behavior correlates to other authoritarians in the modern world. The criteria of the assessment of Trump’s administration will be done by measuring the severity of his attacks on governmental branches and agencies, consolidation of power, and limitations of civil liberties. This study contributes to the conversation of endangered democracy, investigating the integrity of American democracy under Trump’s presidency.