The emergence of authoritarian tendencies in the United States has prompted significant reflection among citizens regarding the factors that have contributed to this situation. Notably, philosopher Richard Rorty articulated concerns about the potential for authoritarianism in his 1997 work, 'Achieving Our Country.' He suggested that labor unions and unorganized workers would eventually recognize that their government was failing to protect their wages and jobs. Rorty predicted that this realization would lead to a search for a strongman leader who would promise to restore control over the political and economic landscape, potentially at the expense of marginalized groups.

Rorty also warned that the gains made by Black and brown Americans could be reversed, and societal attitudes towards women could regress. He attributed part of this shift to a perceived neglect by the Left, which he believed was increasingly focused on identity politics rather than addressing the economic concerns of the white middle class. This critique resonates with the sentiments that have fueled movements such as MAGA (Make America Great Again).

The theme of authoritarianism was also explored by Sinclair Lewis in his 1935 novel 'It Can’t Happen Here,' which depicted a fictional senator who rises to power by appealing to the fears and frustrations of the populace. This narrative reflects ongoing concerns about the potential for demagoguery in American politics.

As the Trump administration continues, questions arise regarding the future of U.S. democracy and the implications of state actions, such as the involvement of federal agents in local protests and the potential for increased state surveillance. The historical context provided by philosophers like Plato, who warned of the vulnerabilities of democratic systems to authoritarianism, underscores the importance of vigilance in protecting democratic values and social equity. The current political climate serves as a reminder of the warnings issued by these thinkers, suggesting that the trajectory of U.S. governance may lead to significant challenges for civil liberties and social justice.