By Matt Underwood I watched Orbán dismantle Hungary’s democracy, and the parallels with the Trump era are chillingly clear. The strategies employed—the subtle erosion of institutions, the weaponization of media narratives, the cultivation of a loyal base through grievance politics—serve as a stark warning for the United States.
The key takeaway from Orbán’s success is the absolute necessity of prioritizing the needs of the people. A democracy only survives if it demonstrably improves the lives of its citizens. Focusing solely on abstract ideals of democracy, without addressing the tangible economic and social anxieties of ordinary people, leaves the door wide open for authoritarian figures to exploit those vulnerabilities.
This means embracing left-populist economic policies. We need to address the everyday struggles faced by working-class Americans, not just through rhetoric, but with concrete action. This includes tackling inflation aggressively, raising the minimum wage, and expanding access to affordable higher education and job training programs focused on high-demand sectors. Investing in these areas isn’t just economically beneficial; it’s a critical component of restoring faith in the system.
More affordable college and greater financial assistance are essential to ensure equal opportunity. Likewise, fostering high-tech, high-paying jobs in underserved regions, coupled with robust job training initiatives, can revitalize communities left behind by globalization.
But the fight is not just about policy; it’s about narrative control. Progressive voices must actively counter the deluge of misinformation and disinformation flooding the media landscape. The battle for public opinion is paramount. Ignoring this crucial aspect of the fight leaves the field wide open for those who would manipulate public sentiment for their own gain.
This requires more than simply countering false narratives; it necessitates proactively shaping a positive, compelling message that resonates with the American people. This is a struggle that demands constant engagement, an aggressive push to reclaim the information war, and a willingness to communicate effectively across a wide range of platforms.
The attraction of right-wing populism is often misunderstood. It isn’t simply a clash between the wealthy and the poor; it’s a narrative that pits “makers” against “takers,” contrasting hard work and self-reliance with perceived dependency and laziness. This resonates with working-class voters who feel their hard work is not adequately valued. We need to understand and address this narrative.
Addressing the economic concerns of working-class Americans requires a multi-pronged approach. This includes dismantling corporate welfare, redirecting resources towards small businesses, and empowering workers through measures like strong union protections and fair wages. The focus needs to be on creating a genuinely equitable economic system that reflects the values of hard work and fairness.
The success of Orbán’s authoritarian regime serves as a cautionary tale. His consolidation of power demonstrates that the insidious erosion of democratic norms can occur subtly, often disguised as populist reforms. It also illustrates how crucial it is to combat the intentional spread of disinformation.
The alarmingly close relationship between Trump and Orbán further underscores the danger. The appointment of figures like Sebastian Gorka, a known Orbán advisor, to positions of influence should raise serious concerns. The similarities in their rhetoric, policies, and overall approach to governance should not be overlooked. These are not mere coincidences.
While economic policies are crucial, the battle for the hearts and minds of the American public is equally critical. The right-wing has successfully captured a significant portion of the media landscape, shaping narratives and controlling the information flow. The left must develop and implement a strategy to counter this dominance to win back the narrative.
The threat to American democracy is real. It requires a multi-faceted response that addresses the economic anxieties of the population, battles the insidious spread of disinformation, and works tirelessly to reclaim control of the narrative. The lessons of Hungary cannot be ignored. The time to act is now.