Fearmongering about the end of democracy.

So last week I pointed out that I was unconvinced that electing Trump would end democracy. I asked for plausible pathways by which democracy could end. Given the constitution and incentive of Republican politicians to move on I remain unconvinced of potential claims of a military overthrow or Trump as a puppet master. If Trump wins in November, what will happen in 2029, assuming he does not die in office, is that he will leave the White House and the next president will move into it.

Okay, this is an election year and unfair claims against the other party is par for the course. Make no mistake that Republicans are making unfair claims against Democrats as well. But my concern is not about this being an unfair claim. I am concerned that this is a dangerous claim. If you believe, as I do, that Trump is an incompetent, immoral buffoon who does not need to be in the White House, but he wins anyway then you are disappointed. Maybe you work to ensure the Republican party pays for this in 2028. But if you think that the election will be the end of democracy then revolution becomes acceptable.

I fear a revolutionary atmosphere that is not just the normal riots one has come to expect after our elections nowadays. What is the limiting factor if you believe that Trump is Hitler and not merely a bad president? I am all for noting how Trump violates our political norms in unhealthy ways. But the Democrats have been violating norms in dangerous ways as well. I mean trying to take him off the ballot by legal means is a huge violation of democratic norms.

I fear that many people are so focused on beating Trump that they will use any means necessary. But this tactic of fearmongering about the end of democracy is likely to ironically lead to real attacks on democracy. It can lead to a win by any means necessary and that dehumanizes our political opponents. To the degree that Republican claims of judicial unfairness against Republicans hold weight, it is likely due to this win-at-all-cost mentality. I hope people really think about using this accusation of end of democracy. Try not to let fear of Trump take us to something that is scary. Yes, people can become what they say they hate in Trump in order to stop Trump. Some introspection is necessary to stop that process.

Of course, none of this should impact our ability to criticize the real issues tied to Trump. People know that I have no problem pointing out his many failures. But unless there is real evidence that the election of Trump will end democracy, we should stay away from such accusations. There is tremendous danger in pushing such accusations. I fear that many making those accusations do not fully appreciate those dangers.