Muslim World Report

MAGA Movement Threatens Democracy as Trump Prepares for 2028 Run

Dr. Anthony Lindsay | Apr 25, 2025 10:28 AM | 7 min read | 1290 words

TL;DR: The MAGA movement poses a significant threat to democratic norms as Trump gears up for a potential 2028 run. This article explores the implications of this movement, examining its effects on U.S. politics and global democratic standards. It discusses potential scenarios, strategic responses, and the role of media in shaping public discourse.

The Deterioration of Democratic Principles in the MAGA Era

The ongoing political turmoil in the United States has compelled international observers to confront the implications of a movement that increasingly challenges the core tenets of democratic governance. Recent developments surrounding the MAGA movement, particularly the provocative suggestion to repeal the 22nd Amendment—which limits U.S. presidents to two terms—have illuminated a disquieting trend. This proposal, coupled with the launch of ‘Trump 2028’ merchandise, raises alarms over the normalization of undemocratic practices, signifying a broader decline in respect for constitutional norms.

Key Concerns Include:

  • Consolidation of power over principle: Exploiting political divides reminiscent of historical authoritarian movements.
  • Global ripple effects: This rhetoric emboldens similar movements worldwide, particularly in regions grappling with democratic challenges.
  • Public discontent: As Pippa Norris (2017) asserts, contemporary threats to democracies stem from populist-authoritarian forces.

The chilling question remains: What happens when democratic values are perceived as obstacles to power rather than guiding principles?

This moment in American history is pivotal—not just for the nation but for a global order that has relied on U.S. democratic ideals as a benchmark. The MAGA movement serves as a stark reminder of the fragile nature of democratic institutions in an era characterized by escalating polarization. The stakes of this battle over the essence of democracy transcend mere political rivalry, with potential ramifications on international relationships and values.

What If Trump Actually Runs in 2028?

Should former President Donald Trump officially declare his candidacy for the 2028 election, the ramifications would be profound. His candidacy could:

  • Galvanize a divided Republican Party: Further polarizing the U.S. political landscape.
  • Trigger backlash from moderates and independents: Many may feel disillusioned by a continuation of Trump-era policies characterized by divisiveness.

The implications extend beyond domestic politics. Internationally, Trump’s potential candidacy could signal:

  • Regression in U.S. foreign policy: Leaning back toward nationalist and isolationist tendencies.
  • Concern among traditional allies: They may reconsider their positions, while adversaries could view this as an opportunity to undermine democratic institutions (Matthijs, 2017).

What If the 22nd Amendment is Repealed?

The potential repeal of the 22nd Amendment through legislative action would irrevocably alter the political landscape. Concerns include:

  • Undermining foundational democratic principles: Such a move could set a dangerous precedent, encouraging similar actions in other nations.
  • International reactions: Democratic nations may voice concerns, while authoritarian regimes might seize the opportunity to assert their own power without regard for term limits (Swyngedouw, 2009).

What If the Backlash Escalates?

In response to the provocations of the MAGA movement, the potential for a broader backlash exists:

  • Grassroots movements could emphasize a return to democratic norms.
  • However, this could provoke a vigorous counter-response from MAGA supporters, fracturing civil discourse and heightening political violence (Anderson & Tverdova, 2003).

Internationally, the ramifications could lead to:

  • Encouragement of authoritarian practices in nations with similar populist movements (Skillington, 2016).
  • Democratic nations forming coalitions aimed at countering the spread of anti-democratic ideologies (Kruk et al., 2018).

Strategic Maneuvers

To navigate the tumultuous political landscape in the wake of the MAGA movement’s actions, various stakeholders must consider strategic maneuvers.

For the Democratic Party

  • Engage in a robust campaign: Address immediate threats and provide a compelling vision for the future.
  • Build coalitions: Collaborate with moderate Republicans disillusioned by extreme measures.
  • Focus on grassroots mobilization: Implement voter registration drives and public awareness campaigns that reinforce democratic participation (Chimni, 2000).

For Civil Society Organizations

Civil society organizations must:

  • Advocate for democratic principles while expanding outreach to younger citizens.
  • Document and publicize the implications of the MAGA movement’s actions, providing actionable information to citizens (Walzer & Starr, 1984).

For International Actors

International actors, particularly those in democratic nations, must:

  • Monitor the situation and articulate a unified stance against threats to democracy in the U.S. (Mubangizi & Sewpersadh, 2017).
  • Support civil society efforts focused on upholding democracy through resources for education, advocacy, and legal support (Kantowitz & Suchman, 1990).

The Global Context

As the MAGA movement continues to evolve, its implications reach far beyond American politics. Historical contexts reveal that such movements often arise during:

  • Economic distress
  • Social fragmentation
  • Perceived threats to national identity

The MAGA phenomenon echoes nationalist sentiments seen in recent elections in Europe and Latin America.

The Reinforcement of Authoritarian Tendencies

Political leaders worldwide exploit public discontent to undermine democratic norms:

  • Examples from Hungary, Brazil, and Turkey illustrate a trend where populist leaders consolidate power amid cultural anxieties.
  • The U.S.’s current trajectory risks alienating traditional allies and undermining multilateral institutions that uphold democratic values.

Economic Implications and Global Markets

The potential for economic instability linked to political upheaval cannot be understated. Analysts fear:

  • Political turmoil in the U.S. could lead to increased global economic risks, particularly for trade-dependent countries.
  • Resurgence in protectionist policies may disengage the U.S. from global economic networks, complicating international markets further.

The Role of Media and Information

A critical component in the current political milieu is the role of media—both traditional and social. Key issues include:

  • Misinformation and Disinformation Campaigns: Manipulated information can shape public opinion and undermine institutional trust, fostering environments where conspiracy theories flourish.
  • The MAGA movement has adeptly utilized social media to galvanize support, underscoring the urgent need for media literacy.

The Impact of Local Journalism

Local journalism faces unprecedented challenges, and its decline threatens informed dialogue within communities. Strengthening local journalism can reestablish trust in media and ensure diverse voices are represented in public discourse.

Conclusion

The implications of the MAGA movement stretch beyond a singular political entity, impacting economic, social, and international domains. The ongoing struggle to maintain democratic principles requires vigilance and proactive engagement from all stakeholders.

As the stakes continue to rise, collaborative approaches—whether through grassroots advocacy, coalition-building, or maintaining a unified international stance—will be essential to safeguard democratic values. The future of American democracy, and indeed the trajectory of democratic governance worldwide, hangs in the balance.

References

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Bieber, F. (2020). “Post-Yugoslav Democracy: The Challenge of Nationalism.” In The Routledge Handbook of Nationalism in East Central Europe.

Chimni, B. S. (2000). “The Challenge of Globalization to the National Welfare State: The Case of the United States.” International Journal of Refugee Law, 12(2), 388-409.

Diamond, L. (1994). “Toward Democratic Consolidation.” In The Global Resurgence of Democracy.

Kantowitz, B. H., & Suchman, A. L. (1990). “Effects of Political Instability on Public Health.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 31(4), 428-442.

Kruk, J., et al. (2018). “The Authoritarian Resurgence: A Global Perspective.” Democracy: A Journal of Ideas.

Matthijs, M. (2017). “The Political Economy of the Resurgence of Nationalism: Lessons from the United States and Europe.” Comparative Political Studies, 50(8), 1012-1038.

Mubangizi, J. C., & Sewpersadh, A. (2017). “The Role of Civil Society in Promoting Democracy and Human Rights in Africa.” African Journal of International and Comparative Law, 25(1), 57-73.

Norris, P. (2017). “Strengthening Electoral Integrity.” The Electoral Studies, 45, 251-253.

Skillington, T. (2016). “Global Trends in Populism and Its Effects on Democracy.” European Journal of Political Research, 55(1), 1-15.

Swyngedouw, E. (2009). “The Antinomies of the Postpolitical City: In Search of a Democratic Politics of the Common.” The International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 33(3), 601-620.

Vasta, E. (2007). “Civil Society and the Political Mobilization of Immigrants.” International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, 27(5), 220-232.

Walzer, M., & Starr, M. (1984). “The Revolution of the Life-World: On Action, Society and Culture.” Social Theory and Practice, 10(2), 195-205.

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