By Matt Underwood Gavin Newsom, echoing a sentiment that seems to be gaining traction, stated, “I don’t think Donald Trump wants another election.” This isn’t just idle speculation; it’s a reflection of a growing concern about Trump’s disregard for the democratic process and his stated desire to remain in power. The evidence, according to many, is accumulating, painting a clear picture of a leader who sees elections as obstacles rather than opportunities for public service.
The sheer volume of “Trump 2028” hats, sent to Newsom by supporters, hints at a long-term plan. These aren’t just novelty items; they are emblems of an aspiration that goes beyond the usual political maneuvering. The suggestion that talk of a third term is naive cuts to the heart of the matter. It’s a recognition that Trump has shown, time and again, a willingness to break norms and exploit loopholes. He has consistently portrayed the electoral process as rigged, sowing distrust and laying the groundwork for contesting any outcome he doesn’t like.
Many believe that Trump has telegraphed his intentions through statements and actions. His constant repetition of the “rigged election” narrative, coupled with the suggestion that people wouldn’t have to vote again, points to a desire to bypass the electoral system altogether. This is not just about winning an election; it’s about consolidating power. The idea of preparing the military for protests, should elections be canceled, is seen as an indicator of the lengths Trump is prepared to go to remain in power. The notion of him seeking “El Presidente for Life” is not so far-fetched when viewed through this lens.
Trump’s actions follow a pattern: making outlandish statements, floating ideas, and gauging the public’s response. His alleged plan to rebuild Gaza as a resort, coupled with the “you’ll never have to vote again” comments, reinforces this pattern. These are not just off-the-cuff remarks; they are part of a carefully crafted strategy. The 2028 hats are a tangible manifestation of this strategy, a cash grab and a signal of their goals.
The potential scenario of a “third term,” or the avoidance of an election entirely, should not be taken lightly. It represents a fundamental threat to democracy, a transition from a republic to a dictatorship. Trump’s promise of never needing to vote again, his calls for his supporters to take action, and his rhetoric regarding perceived enemies are all signals of a power grab. The emphasis on controlling who votes and the outcome, if elections must be held, illustrates the ultimate goal of the party.
The fear is not just of Trump, but of what his presidency represents: the erosion of democratic institutions. The ongoing legal battles, the Supreme Court decisions, and the inaction of some leaders are all seen as contributing to this erosion. There’s a growing conviction that those in power are prioritizing their own interests over the interests of the people. The failure to adequately challenge Trump’s actions is seen as a betrayal of the Constitution and the values it represents.
The conversation often extends to the need for constitutional reform. Proposals include term limits, independent oversight for districting, penalties for lying to Congress, and a merit-based system for selecting Supreme Court justices. These suggestions reflect a deep-seated frustration with the current state of affairs and a desire to strengthen the safeguards against authoritarianism. The urgency stems from the belief that the United States is closer than ever to a point of no return. The feeling that Trump could be the last election we hold is a frightening thought.
The core argument is that Trump’s actions demonstrate a lack of commitment to democracy. He’s already stated his desire to eliminate elections, and all of his actions seem to be leading to this very scenario. Trump is trying to undermine the voting rights of those who oppose him. The conclusion is clear: if Trump can’t win legitimately, he will find a way to win by any means necessary. The threat is real, and the stakes are higher than ever before.