How do we save democracy?
By calling authoritarian developments by their name.
Those in the US, who have traditionally been the loudest in demanding the right to free speech, are now beginning to weed out those whose speeches no longer align with the new rulers.
Why?
Because once in power, free speech becomes a threat to them. So, attempts are made to suppress criticism.
This is how democracies slide into authoritarian states.
This has happened many times around the world (the only difference in the case of the US is that this process has never been in such a prominent spotlight before). However, the focus is, as always, on those who are least able to defend themselves: foreigners.1
The handbook of authoritarianism knows that it most likely won't stop there.
Unless there are enough people who recognize this development and will stand up for democracy.
See you in Democracy!
Toosi, N. (2025, May 27). Trump team orders stop to new student visa interviews, as it weighs expanding social media vetting. POLITICO.
Anybody who attempts to "suppress my criticism" in ANY way had better have good life insurance.