By Matt Underwood As I sit reflecting on the potential terror of a second Trump term, I can’t help but recall past economies under authoritarian regimes in Latin America, whether from the last century or even more recent events. His promises bear an uncanny resemblance to all the hallmarks of failed economies under these autocratic governments. From protectionist tariffs leading to shoddy domestic substitutions to extreme crony capitalism. The parallels are startling and a chilling foreshadowing of the path America could be led down under his continued leadership.
However, it’s not just the damaging economic policies that Trump has favored before which concern me. Far from it. He also has grand visions of authoritarianism that seem eerily akin to the actions of reckless, self-serving dictators. If he gets a second shot at power, I genuinely fear he will divide the country even more starkly than he already has, causing further polarisation and setting the nation on a headlong path to self-destruction.
One of his many proclamations is the construction of “freedom cities” complete with flying cars. I could not help but jocularly wonder if he had been watching ‘Back To The Future Part II’ before making this promise. It’s a laughable, if not altogether farcical illustration of the imaginative lengths he’ll go to charm his followings. But beyond absurdity, this so-called idea uncovers a fundamental disconnect from the actual pressing issues that need immediate attention.
The potential attack on media freedom is another horrifying proposition. The need for freedom of speech and press, as enshrined in the First Amendment, is paramount to a democratic society. However, his determination to clampdown on any media house that shows dissent further solidifies the dangerous potential for an authoritarian regime. From the outside looking in, it’s honestly perplexing how any person can read these promises and not feel a visceral dread of looming fascism.
Yet, a demographic of interest seems relatively quiet – the younger generation. To any Gen Z reading this, I implore you – do not support a climate-denier like Trump. You have the most significant stake in the future of our planet. Your voice matters. It’s pivotal to vote, to volunteer, to assist those who need help getting to the polls. Every vote counts and will shape the future you’ll be living in.
Perhaps one of the most harrowing prospects is Trump’s dismissal of the recent Capitol attack. His evident disdain for law and order, for the very tenets of our democracy is alarming to say the least. His readiness to pardon those involved in these heinous acts does nothing but cement his contempt for the rule of law and his cavalier attitude towards the sanctity of democratic institutions.
So, where does this leave us? It’s not enough to dissect the potential horrors of another Trump term. The onus now lays with us to act. This is a rallying cry for all those who recognize the gravity of the impending election. We need to utilize our vote, to engage in meaningful discussions, to rally those around us to understand the implications of another disastrous Trump term.
This country was founded on ideals of freedom, justice, and equality. Let’s not let it slide into an authoritarian regime, where those in power view dissent as a crime and diversity as a threat. We, as responsible citizens, owe it to ourselves, to our forefathers, and our future generations to preserve the sanctity of our Constitution and the values it embodies. The future of this country is in our hands; let’s ensure we steer it towards inclusivity, equity, and democratic prosperity. We’re faced with promises to exacerbate homelessness, brutalize the impoverished, and militarize our law enforcement. We’re confronted with a leader who is ready to upend the pillars of democracy in his bid to consolidate absolute power, and whimsical propositions to invade Mexico and construct utopian “freedom cities”. These are not the promises of a true leader but the whims of an autocrat in the making.
This blatant disregard for civil liberties, human rights and democratic ideals is frightening. We are headed down a path many countries have been down before, and it does not bode well; But there is still hope. This hope resides in every voting booth, in the hands of every citizen who makes the choice to cast his or her vote. No longer can we afford complacency, because complacency at this critical juncture equates to complicity in the erosion of our democracy.
As I review the horrifying list of Trump’s second term promises, it’s disconcertingly reminiscent of the authoritarian playbooks we’ve seen historically executed in other nations. From a frightening willingness to roll back climate progress and invest in fossil fuels, to a bizarre proposal of constructing “freedom cities” filled with flying cars. These terrifying “promises” seem less like innovative measures for the betterment of our nation, and more like recipes for chaos and disorder.
Adding to the potential second term atrocities is the promise to pardon the Jan. 6 rioters. This seems tantamount to endorsing an insurrection against the U.S. capitol, a hallowed symbol of democracy. It’s deeply worrisome to envision a leader who not only condones but celebrates violence and mayhem.
Yet, it’s imperative to remember that we are not powerless. Every eligible voter can play a crucial part in shaping our nation’s future. Our actions or inactions during the upcoming elections will reverberate through generations to come. It’s essential for everyone, especially the younger generations, to participate in the electoral process. Apathy could have dire consequences, pushing our nation down a path of irreversible damage.
The impending second term of Trump feels ominous, taking on the overtures of an authoritarian regime, intent on undermining the democratic values we’ve cherished for centuries. The attack on the First Amendment and the delegitimization of trans Americans are indicative of the severely divisive and persecutory nature of Trump’s regime. Just the thought of another four years under such leadership is spine-chilling.
Let’s not let fear or apathy lead us into a future steeped in chaos and tyranny. It’s incumbent upon us to exercise our democratic rights and remain vigilant with an uncompromised respect for the principles of justice and equality. Democracy’s endurance is predicated upon our collective action. Let’s strive to ensure that our nation doesn’t succumb to the perils of authoritarian rule. The future of our country rests in our hands, and we must strive to steer it towards tolerance, unity, and prosperity.