Does “Democratic Backsliding” Only Happen to Others?
Dissenters against autocrats in Hungary, Serbia, and Turkey see the same “democratic backsliding” in the U.S. “Americans think this is something that also only happens to others,” said an opponent of Hungary’s Viktor Orban. “That mindset has to be fought.”Trust me, the majority of Americans are acutely aware that Trump represents a grave threat to U.S. democracy. If it weren’t for the consolidation of power in the executive branch, and Trump’s lack of concern for anyone and anything other than himself, this whole thing wouldn’t be anywhere near as terrifying as it is now.
With all due respect — your incorrect in your assumption concerning the reasons consolidation you listing here even taking place.
The following is intricate and involved — but you can handle it.
Had the recently retired and present US Military Leadership not totally forgotten the oath they all swore, just like every other Veteran that ever took the oath when joing the “Military Service”:
— “…to honor and protect the US / it’s Constitution / and all of the peoples within it’s borders…(paraphrase) – as defined in the Constitution:
— “…from harm from without ‘or within’ – which they have totally forgotten about”
— this sequence of political events would never have been allowed to take place — full stop.
Here’s why:
— it is not illegal to vote – because that is enshrined in the Constitution.
It is however::
— totally illegal to vote for a publicly, self-declared Dictator on Day 1 – as Donald Trump loudly proclaimed he would be if elected: because by legal definition:
— a Dictator works to consolidate all power unto himself or herself – which, by legal definition means that:
— this person is an “enemy” of the US / it’s Constitution / and all of the peoples within it’s borders;
— and consolidation of power “is” the game plan.
The former US Military leadership saw this; and kept Trump’s autocratic aims at bay in his first term.
However – the present US Military Leadership did the best job of mimicking / copying the pre-WW II German High Command in their total capitulation and joining of:
— the Third Reich Nazi Government of Adolph Hitler.
They also, under UCMJ Article 90 and 92 – are totally guilty of Dereliction of Duty by acquiescing to, and following – the totally illegal issued “Executive Orders” from the present Administration.
Had they honored their oath – this disaster would not have taken place — and at a time in the future — they will be held accountable.