Murphy: Trump is attempting to transform the US into something closer to a totalitarian state. This is a chilling thought, but the pieces of the puzzle seem to be falling into place. Many feel that this transition is already underway, a gradual erosion of democratic norms and institutions, happening right before our eyes. The question now isn’t if he’s trying, but rather, how do we stop him?
The core concern revolves around a shift towards a system of governance where individual liberties are diminished, and the power of the state is absolute. Some feel that Trump is not operating in isolation, that he’s a figurehead for a broader movement, encompassing elements of the Republican Party, the Supreme Court, and powerful financial interests, all seemingly converging on this goal.… Continue reading
The escalating use of “authoritarianism” reflects the rise of authoritarian regimes globally, undermining democratic institutions. A significant portion of political scientists and Americans perceive a trajectory towards authoritarianism in the U.S., particularly associating it with figures like Donald Trump. Authoritarianism differs from totalitarianism in its intensity; totalitarianism exerts complete control over society, encompassing a developed ideology and charismatic leadership fostering fervent loyalty. Conversely, authoritarianism often lacks a cohesive ideology and relies on a passive population to maintain power. The United States currently faces a similar crisis of modernization as early 20th-century Germany, exhibiting advanced sectors alongside significant economic and cultural backwardness, making it vulnerable to a prolonged period of authoritarian rule.
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Google Street View offers a pre-invasion glimpse of Russian-occupied Ukrainian towns, providing a stark contrast to the present. Imagery reveals a landscape drastically altered since February 2022, with widespread destruction and altered street names. The occupied areas now operate on Moscow time, a noticeable shift from the rest of Ukraine. This temporal discrepancy highlights the profound impact of the Russian occupation.
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Matt Underwood 
John Q. Hosedrinker