At a faith-centered gathering in Florida, former President Donald Trump made a strikingly authoritarian declaration, suggesting that Americans might not need to vote again if he secures a second term in office.
During his speech at the Believers Summit, Trump told the audience to vote “just this time” and said they “won’t have to do it anymore” after the election in November. “Four more years, you know what? It’ll be fixed, it’ll be fine. You won’t have to vote anymore,” he insisted.
Trump elaborated, “You’ve got to get out and vote. In four years, you don’t have to vote again, my beautiful Christians. We’ll have it fixed so good, you’re not going to have to vote.” This statement raised eyebrows, as it seemed to imply a permanent alteration of the democratic process, where elections might no longer be necessary.
This is not an isolated instance of troubling rhetoric. Trump has previously hinted at dictatorial ambitions, proposing drastic actions such as the “termination” of constitutional provisions, and even suggested he might attempt a coup to retain power. His discussions have also included unsettling proposals like serving a third presidential term despite the 22nd Amendment’s restrictions.
Adding to the unease, Trump’s remarks come in the wake of a publication by The American Conservative, associated with the far-right Project 2025 agenda, which called for the repeal of the 22nd Amendment. This agenda has connections to Trump’s running mate, Sen. JD Vance (R-Ohio), who has written a foreword for an advocate of Project 2025.
Despite Trump’s claims of ignorance about Project 2025 and its policy proposals, his recent comments and past actions suggest a troubling pattern of undermining democratic norms and exploring authoritarian pathways.
Watch the clip below:
Trump: You have to get out and vote. You won’t have to do it anymore. Four years, it will be fixed, it will be fine. You won’t have to vote anymore.. In four years, you won’t have to vote again. pic.twitter.com/DBGcBr3Wht
— Acyn (@Acyn) July 27, 2024
