Context:

In the first seven months of his second term, President Donald Trump has taken significant steps to consolidate power, disregarding traditional limits and legal boundaries. He has federalized the DC Metropolitan Police and deployed the National Guard in unprecedented ways, raising concerns about militarizing the US. Trump's manipulation of government data and firing of officials who oppose him signal a politicization of independent functions, while his investigations into political opponents suggest a retaliatory approach against dissenters. Furthermore, he has ignored legislative directives, as demonstrated in his handling of TikTok, and engaged in power plays that challenge the rule of law, particularly in deportation practices. These actions reflect a potential shift towards more authoritarian governance, raising questions about the balance of power in American government.

Dive Deeper:

• Trump has federalized the DC Metropolitan Police and deployed the National Guard to address crime, actions that are considered unprecedented and extraordinary given their usual deployment is reserved for widespread disturbances like riots.

• The president has dismissed the head of the Bureau of Labor Statistics for an unfavorable jobs report and replaced him with a loyalist, raising concerns about the reliability of government data and the erosion of independence in governmental functions.

• Investigations against Trump's political adversaries have increased, with many initiated at his behest, suggesting a retributive strategy that could intimidate future whistleblowers and critics.

• Trump's disregard for Congressional authority is evident in his handling of the TikTok issue, where he has ignored bipartisan legislation and Supreme Court rulings by extending the app's operations despite national security concerns.

• In his efforts to accelerate deportations, Trump has bypassed due process and invoked wartime authority, leading to several wrongful deportations and legal challenges that question the administration's respect for the rule of law.

• The president has exerted pressure on media, universities, and law firms to conform to his administration's demands, setting new precedents that could embolden similar actions by future leaders.

• Trump's tariff policies, which bypass Congressional authority, represent a significant power play that has allowed him to wield economic tools for political leverage, despite traditional Republican opposition to such measures.