Will Trumpian Authoritarianism Lead to a Constitutional Crisis?
Since his return to the White House on January 20, 2025, President Donald Trump has signed around sixty executive orders to implement his political agenda. Numerous other measures have also been introduced by the White House and the new Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) as part of these orders.
Some of these decisions, such as the January 20 executive order 'Protecting the Meaning and Value of American Citizenship,' which challenges birthright citizenship, seem to contradict the U.S. Constitution. Others, like the dismissal of officials or the freezing of federal grants, could overstep presidential authority concerning the federal administration or undermine the principle of separation of powers in relation to Congress.
In light of the numerous legal challenges filed by opponents, has President Trump’s team prepared strong legal arguments to defend their first set of measures, or do they simply intend to ignore any unfavorable court rulings? The latter choice would trigger a constitutional crisis. The coming months will thus be crucial for the balance of power in the United States.
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Laurence NARDON
Research Fellow, Head of the Americas Program, Ifri
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Ifri's work on the Americas region focuses mainly on the United States. Indeed, for more than 20 years, Ifri's Americas Program has provided keys to understanding American society and domestic policy while shedding light on developments in the country's foreign policy, including transatlantic relations and trade issues.
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