A landslide victory for the Democrats in November's midterm elections is essential to halt the erosion of US democracy, according to historian and commentator Timothy Garton Ash. Writing in an essay, he argues that a decisive defeat for President Donald Trump is the only way to counter his efforts to undermine democratic institutions.
Citing the Varieties of Democracy (V-Dem) Institute, the analysis notes that the US experienced one of the most rapid declines in liberal democracy on record in 2025, with democracy now at its worst in 60 years. The report highlights that Trump issued 225 executive orders in 2025, while the Republican-controlled Congress passed just 49 laws, many of them minor.
The essay points to Project 2025, the Heritage Foundation's blueprint for expanding presidential power, which is more than halfway to implementation. It also warns of systematic attempts to restrict voting, including partisan gerrymandering and measures making it harder for groups likely to support Democrats to cast ballots. The author draws parallels with Hungary, where a popular uprising swept away obstacles to change.
Trump himself is seen as the strongest force working for a Democratic landslide. His tariffs and military action in the Middle East have increased living costs, with petrol prices rising. The war against Iran has already cost $37.5bn, with an additional $67.1bn requested. Polls suggest nearly 60% opposition to the war, and his disapproval rating is similar. Allegations of corruption, including an estimated $2bn enrichment of his family, further fuel unpopularity.
Despite these advantages, the author laments the absence of a strong opposition leader comparable to Hungary's Péter Magyar. The Democrats are described as facing an 'open goal' but lacking a figure to convert the opportunity. The essay concludes by noting that such leaders often emerge late in the electoral cycle.
