In a recent interview on MSNBC’s “Inside with Jen Psaki,” Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-Md.) drew a stark comparison between a hypothetical second term for former President Donald Trump and the leadership styles of authoritarian figures like Vladimir Putin and Viktor Orban.
Jamie Raskin, a key member of the House select committee that investigated the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack and Trump’s role in it, expressed concerns about Trump’s approach to governance
He warned that such a scenario would resemble the governance seen in Russia under Putin and Hungary under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, characterized by illiberal democracy lacking in rights, liberties, and respect for due process and the rule of law.
Jamie Raskin emphasized the refusal of leaders like Putin and Orban to accept election outcomes that do not favor them, as well as their willingness to embrace political violence to achieve power. He asserted that Trump, in this context, aligns with the characteristics of charismatic politicians who subvert democratic norms.
Jamie Raskin Warns of Trump’s Hypothetical Second Term
The congressman raised concerns about the nation moving toward a form of government distinct from its historical roots, describing it as a right-wing, authoritarian regime aligned with leaders like Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Orban.
This commentary from Jamie Raskin comes amid Trump’s ongoing legal challenges, with the former president facing an unprecedented 91 criminal felony counts across state and federal indictments. Trump has hinted at using his power to pursue political opponents, including President Biden, should he be reelected, a sentiment expressed through posts on his Truth Social platform and at rallies.