Is the U.S. slipping into 'Competitive Authoritarianism'? An Expert Analysis
In recent years, the term 'competitive authoritarianism' has emerged as a way to describe a political system where democratic rules and competitive elections exist, but the ruling party employs various tactics to tilt the playing field in its favor, maintaining power. This concept, initially coined by Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way in 2002 to describe systems in countries like Serbia, Kenya, and Peru, has now been applied to the United States, sparking intense debate and analysis.
Levitsky, a professor of government at Harvard, explains that competitive authoritarianism involves elected authoritarians who convert the state into a weapon and shield. They use the state to target political rivals and protect themselves and allies from legal consequences. A prime example, according to Levitsky, is Trump's pardoning of those convicted in the January 6, 2021, assault on the U.S. Capitol, which raises the cost of opposition and undermines democratic norms.
What makes this term particularly fascinating is the unexpected application to the United States. Levitsky and Way never imagined their concept would be used to describe the U.S. political system. However, Trump's presidency has been marked by actions that align with the tactics of competitive authoritarian leaders like Viktor Orbán and Recep Tayyip Erdogan. The Justice Department's actions against public critics, lawsuits against the media, and attacks on universities viewed as critical of the government all contribute to a rising cost of opposition.
Despite Trump's denials, the term 'competitive authoritarianism' is gaining traction. Google Trends data shows a spike in searches for this term since President Trump's office, indicating growing public interest and concern. However, scholars who argue that the U.S. remains a democracy point out that citizens still protest and criticize Trump and his policies. They argue that the U.S. political system is resilient and that competitive authoritarianism does not guarantee permanent rule, as evidenced by Orbán's recent defeat in Hungary.
In conclusion, the term 'competitive authoritarianism' provides a lens to analyze the U.S. political landscape and the potential erosion of democratic norms. While some argue that the U.S. remains a robust democracy, the actions of the current administration and the rise of this term in public discourse suggest a need for careful observation and analysis. As experts and citizens alike, we must continue to scrutinize and understand the implications of these political developments, ensuring that the U.S. upholds its democratic values and principles.
