The article describes the rapid transformation of the United States from a functioning democracy in late 2024 to an authoritarian state by late 2025, following a second Trump presidency. It details widespread concerns over political persecution, erosion of institutions, and a disregard for the rule of law, while also highlighting emerging signs of public resistance and hope for a potential recovery.
The article starkly contrasts the United States in late October 2024, a flawed but recognizable democracy, with its state a year later in late October 2025. Under a second Trump presidency, the nation is depicted as having tipped into authoritarianism and fascism, as noted by historian Garrett Graff. Specific examples cited include the rounding up of suspected illegal immigrants, the destruction of a White House wing for a ballroom, the persecution of political rivals, demands for funds from the justice department, deployment of military personnel in cities on false pretexts, and the Pentagon's rebranding and reduced journalistic scrutiny. Universities, law firms, and news companies are reportedly buckling under presidential threats. The author expresses alarm that these changes occurred despite warnings like Project 2025 and Trump's own public statements, and that this decline is only nine months into the presidential term, raising fears of a potential third term. Despite the grim reality, the article identifies several sources of hope and resistance. These include upcoming midterm elections in 2026, potential congressional accountability efforts by figures like Jamie Raskin and Robert Garcia, and the presidential election in 2028. Crucially, millions of Americans are protesting, as seen in the recent 'No Kings' rallies. Former Labor Secretary Robert Reich is cited for his optimistic view that 'the great sleeping giant of America is awakening,' drawing parallels to past periods of national crisis like the McCarthy era, Vietnam War protests, and Watergate. Reich points to massive protests, bipartisan pushback against media censorship, and journalists' refusal to comply with government demands as evidence of this awakening. The author grapples with personal pessimism versus a hopeful heart, urging action from various sectors: journalists to hold power accountable, individuals to engage in campaigns, organize rallies, or protect voting rights. Personal sources of hope include idealistic young journalists, the rise of startup news organizations, and the peaceful 'No Kings' protests. The piece concludes with the uncertainty of America's future but a call to not give up, emphasizing that the nation's 250-year experiment is at a critical juncture.
