Opinion | Thomas Friedman on Trump’s Desire to Be President for Life
Renowned journalist and author Thomas Friedman recently penned an opinion piece on President Donald Trump’s apparent desire to be president for life. In the article, Friedman argues that Trump’s behavior and actions suggest that he is not willing to relinquish power, even if he loses the upcoming election.
Friedman points to several instances where Trump has expressed admiration for authoritarian leaders who have extended their rule indefinitely. He notes that Trump has praised leaders like Russia’s Vladimir Putin and China’s Xi Jinping for their ability to stay in power for extended periods of time, and has even joked about being president for life himself.
This desire for power, according to Friedman, is evident in Trump’s attempts to undermine democratic institutions and norms. From his attacks on the media and the judiciary to his refusal to commit to a peaceful transfer of power if he loses the election, Trump’s actions suggest that he is willing to do whatever it takes to hold onto power.
Friedman also highlights the recent controversy surrounding Trump’s nomination of Amy Coney Barrett to the Supreme Court. Despite the upcoming election and the calls from Democrats to wait until after the election to fill the vacancy left by the late Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Trump has pushed forward with Barrett’s nomination, further solidifying his grip on power.
In conclusion, Friedman argues that Trump’s desire to be president for life is a dangerous threat to democracy. He warns that if Trump is re-elected, he may continue to erode democratic norms and institutions, leading to a potential constitutional crisis. Friedman calls on Americans to vote in the upcoming election and to protect the foundations of democracy before it’s too late.
Overall, Friedman’s analysis of Trump’s desire to be president for life is a sobering reminder of the importance of upholding democratic values and norms. As the election approaches, it is crucial for Americans to consider the implications of a president who is unwilling to relinquish power, and to take action to preserve the integrity of our democracy.