Story perspectives

US Democracy Declines, Faces Risk of Electoral Autocracy

3/25/2026

Summary

Story summary

The V-Dem Institute reports the United States has shifted from liberal democracy to electoral democracy, indicating decline in democratic institutions.
Staffan Lindberg, founder of the V-Dem Institute, warns the United States is hurtling toward autocracy, despite some renewal efforts.
The report notes democracy worldwide is at its lowest since the 1970s.
If JD Vance succeeds U.S. President Donald Trump, the United States could move toward electoral autocracy.

1 of 1

Story summary

The V-Dem Institute reports the United States has shifted from liberal democracy to electoral democracy, indicating decline in democratic institutions.
Staffan Lindberg, founder of the V-Dem Institute, warns the United States is hurtling toward autocracy, despite some renewal efforts.
The report notes democracy worldwide is at its lowest since the 1970s.
If JD Vance succeeds U.S. President Donald Trump, the United States could move toward electoral autocracy.