Editorial: The New York Times

• Trump's government follows a common pattern in countries sliding from democracy to autocracy, such as repressing dissent and speech.
• Trump’s Justice Department has become an enforcer of his personal interests.
• The Trump administration is conducting a militarized operation in Minnesota under dubious pretenses.
• The acceleration in stifling dissent and speech is beyond what's happening in Minnesota.
• The leader often finds ways to neuter the legislature in their slide toward autocracy.
• Autocrats often curtail democracy by declaring an emergency.
• Trump has vilified immigrants, transgender Americans, and other marginalized groups.
• Trump's government has tried to manipulate information and control the media.
• Trump has attacked higher education and has tried to take over universities.
• Trump has utilized power for personal enrichment and a cult of personality.

Conclusion: Trump has shown worrisome signs of eroding democracy in the United States, moving towards a form of autocracy.

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