Democracy Dies When Raw Power Rules and Lawlessness is Legalized

The Decline of American Democracy Under Trumpocracy

Before Donald Trump’s 2024 election victory, observers familiar with African democracy recognized striking parallels between his administration and authoritarian regimes. Historically, America positioned itself as the global standard-bearer of democracy, with institutions that served as blueprints for governance worldwide. However, under “Trumpocracy,” these democratic foundations are being systematically dismantled.

Trump’s second term has seen an alarming erosion of democratic norms—targeting political opponents, stacking government with loyalists, and disregarding judicial oversight. His actions mirror tactics long employed by autocratic leaders, raising concerns about America’s role in upholding global democratic values.

Media Suppression and Global Disregard

The Trump administration’s hostility toward critical journalism has become increasingly blatant. From banning media outlets to public confrontations with reporters, the administration signals disdain for press freedom. Marjorie Taylor Greene’s recent dismissal of international opinion—”I don’t care what the world thinks”—epitomizes this isolationist, authoritarian shift.

What Trumpocracy Means for Africa

While Africa has struggled with democratic backsliding, many nations made progress through term limits and electoral reforms. Now, Trump’s actions risk emboldening authoritarian tendencies across the continent:

• Targeting political opponents through legal harassment
• Blurring separation of powers for executive overreach
• Justifying media crackdowns under national security pretexts

As Trump floats the possibility of a third term, African leaders may follow suit in extending their rule. The administration’s indifference to coups in Niger, Burkina Faso, Guinea, and Mali further undermines democratic norms.

The Global Consequences of American Authoritarianism

Trump’s policies extend beyond rhetoric—economic tariffs and unilateral actions destabilize international relations. While Congress belatedly attempts to check presidential power, the damage to America’s democratic credibility may be lasting.

For Africa, the challenge becomes maintaining democratic progress without American leadership. As R.M. Hutchins warned: “The death of democracy is not likely to be an assassination from ambush, but by a slow extinction from apathy, indifference and political undernourishment.”

Ultimately, Trumpocracy’s greatest threat may be normalizing authoritarianism worldwide—a dangerous precedent for nations still strengthening democratic institutions.