Donald Trump is set to deliver a significant address to Congress, marking his first chance to present his policy agenda aimed at expanding presidential power. Amid concerns of a potential authoritarian shift in the U.S., he will focus on themes of economic renewal and immigration, while also addressing international relations, notably his stance on Ukraine. Trump’s approach indicates a consolidation of power, raising alarms about the integrity of American democracy as experts warn of a drift towards authoritarianism.
Trump’s Ambitious Address to Congress
On Truth Social, Donald Trump declared that his upcoming address to Congress on Tuesday will be “big.” This speech marks his first opportunity to outline his general policy agenda as he aims to expand presidential authority in a manner unprecedented in modern American history, even challenging legislative powers.
Concerns Over Democratic Integrity
Experts are increasingly alarmed about a potential authoritarian shift within the United States, the world’s most influential democracy. The White House has indicated that the focus of Trump’s address will be the “renewal of the American dream,” a theme that initially appears positive and unifying, contrasting with his history of provoking divisive sentiments.
At 78 years old, Trump, known for his flair for dramatic presentations, will deliver his speech at 9 PM at the Capitol in Washington. As he enters the chamber, he will be greeted with applause, taking his place at the podium under the scrutiny of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson and Vice President JD Vance.
With Congress under Republican control, Trump will promote his economic strategies amid ongoing tensions from his aggressive trade policies affecting Canada and Mexico. Additionally, he will reinforce his strict immigration stance and share his views on international relations, which have recently been highlighted by his decision to halt military aid to Ukraine following a contentious encounter with President Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office.
Trump’s approach reflects a desire to consolidate power, seemingly bypassing the constitutional checks and balances intended to limit presidential authority. He has empowered billionaire Elon Musk to streamline budgets and reform the federal bureaucracy, with Musk reportedly attending the speech while the Democratic opposition invites officials he has dismissed.
Traditionally, the president invites individuals who embody themes important to him. Recent reports suggest Trump has invited the widow of a police officer killed during a traffic stop and a young volleyball player who was injured during a match involving a transgender athlete.
Trump’s ambition for a “clean break” from past diplomatic practices aims to redefine America’s role as a protector of Western democracies since 1945. This shift is evident in his appointments of loyalists to key judicial and security positions, the dismantling of federal agencies, and consistent criticism of the press.
Political scientists Steven Levitsky and Lucan Way have expressed concerns regarding a drift towards a “competitive authoritarian” regime in an article for Foreign Affairs. They argue that while democracy in the U.S. may not collapse into a classical dictatorship, it could evolve into a system where political competition is heavily skewed in favor of the ruling party.
The researchers predict that while Americans will retain the ability to oppose government actions, doing so will become increasingly perilous, potentially discouraging many from participating in political discourse. As Trump embarks on his second term, responses from the Democratic Party have been relatively subdued, with former Speaker Nancy Pelosi advising her colleagues to remain cautious during the address. “Let him stew in his own juice. Don’t give water to the mill of those who will seek inappropriate behavior,” she advised in an interview.