In a move that has sparked controversy, the Legislative Assembly in El Salvador, controlled by President Nayib Bukele’s party, approved constitutional changes enabling indefinite presidential reelection and extending presidential terms to six years. The proposal also included the elimination of a second round of elections. This decision follows Bukele’s reelection last year despite a constitutional ban, raising concerns among observers about the consolidation of power. While supporters argue the changes align presidential terms with congressional elections, critics like Marcela Villatoro have condemned the move as a death knell for democracy, warning of increased corruption and weakened political participation.
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In a recent escalation of tensions, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio revoked the US visas of eight Brazilian Supreme Court judges amid the trial of former Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. Bolsonaro is under investigation for allegedly masterminding a coup attempt after losing the 2022 election. The US has also threatened to impose tariffs on Brazilian imports, sparking outrage and accusations of interference in Brazil’s internal affairs. This move has divided opinions, with Bolsonaro’s supporters welcoming the actions while others, including some right-wing voices, have condemned the US’s actions.
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In El Salvador, a growing exodus of journalists, activists, and human rights advocates is taking place due to the increasingly authoritarian government of President Nayib Bukele. This exodus is spurred by targeted harassment, threats, and the implementation of laws designed to silence dissent and criminalize criticism. The situation has worsened with the U.S. government’s collaboration with Bukele, who is seen as part of a global network of right-wing leaders employing similar tactics to consolidate power and suppress opposition, especially anyone critical of his administration. Facing no recourse in a system that has no guarantees of justice, these individuals are fleeing the country, hoping to continue their work from abroad while also advocating for the freedom of those who remain imprisoned.
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Drawing on the experiences of Hungary and other nations, the article warns of the potential for autocratic backsliding in the United States. Katalin Cseh, a Hungarian opposition parliamentarian, stresses the urgency of preparing for the 2026 midterms and avoiding complacency, mirroring the strategies employed by leaders like Viktor Orbán. She urges Democrats to mobilize, find visionary candidates, and focus on issues that resonate with voters. The article also highlights how tactics used by Orbán to control media are mirrored in the US, and that solidarity and resistance are crucial in combating authoritarianism.
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The political landscape is constantly evolving, and even seemingly extreme figures like Donald Trump can be viewed as moderate compared to those waiting in the wings. Elon Musk’s recent announcement of a new political party, fueled by his vast wealth and extreme views, reflects this trend. Musk’s platform, though vague, hints at libertarian principles combined with a dangerous embrace of far-right ideologies, reminiscent of his grandfather’s support of apartheid. He has begun to support extremist groups such as the AfD, and his actions indicate a desire to disrupt the political system and potentially pave the way for an even more radical leader.
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In a recent escalation, President Trump threatened to strip comedian Rosie O’Donnell of her U.S. citizenship due to her criticism, despite the president having no legal power to do so. O’Donnell, born in New York, responded by criticizing Trump on social media. This comes as Trump attempts to end birthright citizenship and is pursuing denaturalization of American citizens, actions currently facing legal challenges. This context highlights the increasing tensions between the former president and his critics.
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The Senate has approved a bill that would dramatically increase funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), potentially making it the largest interior law enforcement agency in the United States. The legislation, if passed by the House, would allocate approximately $150 billion over four years for Trump’s immigration enforcement agenda, exceeding the annual military budgets of many countries. This funding includes a substantial increase in ICE’s detention budget, as well as allocations for border militarization and grants to states with anti-immigrant policies. The bill is now heading to the House of Representatives, where its fate remains uncertain amid expected opposition.
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A former Justice Department official, Patty Hartman, has warned of potential retribution within the agency, as she was recently fired, making her the fourth person connected to the Jan. 6 Capitol riots cases to be terminated in the past month. Hartman, who worked on the public affairs team for the District of Columbia U.S. Attorney’s Office, believes these firings are a form of retaliation from the administration, as the mass pardon of the defendants shuttered the Jan. 6 prosecutions. She characterized her dismissal as an indication of a broader destabilization within the Justice Department, asserting that the administration has disregarded established rules and due process. Hartman is now considering a legal challenge regarding her termination, highlighting the growing concerns of those within the agency.
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In January 1933, Hitler’s first cabinet meeting in Berlin saw Nazi leaders vying for his favor, laying the groundwork for the Holocaust. These officials, aware of Hitler’s views, praised him and offered ideas to consolidate power. Within months, the Reichstag voted to grant Hitler sweeping authority through the Enabling Act. The article concludes by drawing parallels between Hitler’s unchecked power and the current American political climate, particularly regarding a president’s ability to operate without significant constraints.
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Recent warnings from Donald Trump represent a dramatic escalation in threats of retribution. He has threatened prominent figures, including Elon Musk, with repercussions such as loss of citizenship or investigation, and has called for the arrest of political opponents. These actions, combined with similar threats against others, raise concerns about the state of US democracy. Pro-democracy advocates caution that Trump’s words should be taken seriously, as they undermine the principles of free speech and the rule of law.
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John Q. Hosedrinker