a cause, repeatedly breaking with democratic norms and undermining trust in institutions. His disregard for the rule of law, attacks on the media, and use of social media to spread misinformation further eroded confidence in the foundations of American democracy.
The decline of American institutions accelerated under Trump’s presidency, as he dismantled regulations, undermined checks and balances, and prioritized loyalty over competence in his appointments. His administration’s corruption and cronyism only reinforced the perception that the system was rigged in favor of the powerful.
As the economy stagnated, inequality deepened, and social divisions widened, the American dream seemed further out of reach for many. The promise of shared prosperity and upward mobility gave way to a sense of disillusionment and despair among large segments of the population.
Symbols matter, especially when it comes to institutions. Once it becomes accepted that institutions cannot be trusted, their slide intensifies. The decline of American democracy was not inevitable, but the erosion of trust in institutions and the breakdown of democratic norms created a self-reinforcing cycle of dysfunction and decline.
Looking back from 2050, it is clear that the decline of the United States was not just a result of economic mismanagement or political incompetence, but a failure of leadership and a loss of faith in the values that once defined the nation. The lessons of this period serve as a cautionary tale for future generations, a reminder of the fragility of democracy and the importance of safeguarding the institutions that underpin it.