Story perspectives

U.S. Under Trump: A Threat to Global Democracy

9/13/2025

Summary

Story summary

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) warns that U.S. policies under President Trump have harmed global democratization, citing executive overreach and funding cuts.
In early 2025, IDEA issued 20 alerts about U.S. actions undermining democratic norms, such as restricting media access and questioning election legitimacy.
The global democracy index has declined for nine years, with over half of countries experiencing significant democratic deterioration.
IDEA Secretary-General Kevin Casas-Zamora stated that the U.S. can no longer be relied upon to promote democracy amid its own institutional challenges.
The White House argues that Trump is restoring democracy, viewing criticisms as partisan attacks.

History

Historical Context

The USA PATRIOT Act, enacted in 2001, expanded U.S. executive power for national security, raising civil liberties concerns among 54% of Americans. This legislation's implications resonate today, as the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance highlights how similar overreach under President Trump has undermined global democratization efforts, contributing to a declining global democracy index for nine consecutive years.

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Story summary

The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) warns that U.S. policies under President Trump have harmed global democratization, citing executive overreach and funding cuts.
In early 2025, IDEA issued 20 alerts about U.S. actions undermining democratic norms, such as restricting media access and questioning election legitimacy.
The global democracy index has declined for nine years, with over half of countries experiencing significant democratic deterioration.
IDEA Secretary-General Kevin Casas-Zamora stated that the U.S. can no longer be relied upon to promote democracy amid its own institutional challenges.
The White House argues that Trump is restoring democracy, viewing criticisms as partisan attacks.

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