Cart 0
The 2024 Presidential election results are out!
The Republican Party has once again made history as Donald Trump triumphs as the next President of America. While
the Democrats garnered about 47.5% votes, Republicans secured victory with 51% votes. Two decades back, George W. Bush won a landslide victory over his Democratic competitor, John Kerry, securing 50.7% votes against Kerry’s 48.3%. And who could forget the historic win of V.P. George H.W. Bush in 1988, when he claimed over 53% of the national vote?
But today, we will not talk about who won or lost in the 2024 presidential elections or the reasons behind it. Instead, we’re here to address a pressing question: Is Donald Trump’s win the biggest threat to democracy today?
According to the national exit polls by Edison Research, almost 75% of United States voters think American democracy was under threat during the presidential 2024 race between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris. This closely contested election drew intense scrutiny from both sides of the political spectrum.
In the lead-up to the election, Harris focused on safeguarding and strengthening democracy. She also spoke about implementing tax cuts, supporting the middle class, making housing affordable, and defending abortion rights. On the other hand, Trump focused on strengthening the economy, tightening immigration policies, reducing energy costs, and increasing tariffs on foreign goods.
How is Trump’s Victory the Biggest Threat to Democracy Today?
Although Trump won the presidential election in 2024 democratically, many believe that his victory could pose a significant threat to American democracy and Black communities. Trump’s team has laid out plans to enact his frequently pledged “retribution” against those who have opposed him, including President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris. Remember Schedule F, an executive order issued by Trump at the end of his first term? It would allow him to appoint loyalists to professional civil service roles who would carry out his orders unquestioningly. Trump’s inner circle comprises only allies and people who support his stand and are willing to implement his directives. Additionally, the Supreme Court has granted broad immunity for actions taken during his time in office.
A second term may see the Trump administration taking even more extreme actions than before. During his first term, the world witnessed the Capitol riot and about 1 million Covid-19-related deaths. Trump was criticized for instances of overreach and using his power to target adversaries.
The authoritarian nature of the Trump administration could spell doom for democracy in the US over the next four years. Some argue that democracy might emerge battered and bruised by the end of Trump’s term.
Impact of Trump’s Victory on Black Communities
Moreover, there are concerns that Trump’s policies may negatively impact Black America in several ways. 
- Civil Jobs: Black Americans hold many government jobs, and under Project 2025, these positions could be cut, leaving many without work or forced to retire early.
- Racism & Discrimination: Trump’s first term was criticized for mishandling racism and racial tensions, and many worry that his re-election could make things worse. His policies might limit police reform and allow unchecked power for law enforcement, which could hurt Black communities.
- Black History in Schools: Additionally, Trump has tried to limit teaching Black history in schools, which could erase important parts of Black heritage and deny future generations valuable education.
Why is Trump’s Second Term Scary?
Trump made his goals for a second term clear during his campaign. His comments, policy statements, and Project 2025—a detailed list of policy recommendations—reveal his vision for this new term.
Trump is expected to appoint corporate allies to head federal agencies and cut back on regulations concerning workplace safety, environmental standards, and more. Regressive tax cuts are already in the pipeline, which would likely impact the federal deficit, much like the fiscal policies of George W. Bush. Other examples include:
- Restricting abortion access
- Preventing federal intervention in cases of police misconduct
- Taking back protection laws for transgender people
Most of these points indicate potential harm to various sections of society, especially vulnerable groups like minorities and the Black community.
Other proposed points in the agenda are –
- A universal import tariff
- The so-called “Quiet Quit” plan for the NATO alliance
- A mass deportation program targeting suspected undocumented immigrants
- Revival of Schedule F to Influence Federal Office Appointments
These policies suggest challenges on all fronts – domestic, international, and global. Not to mention Trump’s intentions to investigate Democrats and punish local election administrators. With its subtle autocratic leanings, the Trump administration could ensure that opposition parties face limited chances of success.
Thus, many fear that a second Trump term could put the health of American democracy in extreme jeopardy. However, the powerful American media and the federal structure of the U.S. government may offer some protection. Ultimately, it will be up to the American public to recognize these risks and act wisely.
