Donald Trump is a leading example of strong-man rulers who have arisen in recent years. One reason for their rise is the apparent inability of many liberal democracies to get things done, like building infrastructure or dealing with crime. Liberal societies tend to proliferate law and procedures, expanding the number of political actors who can veto a collective decision–something labeled “vetocracy”–which then provides an excuse for strong man rule that breaks the law. Liberals societies need to steer a path between vetocracy and would-be authoritarians like Trump, and demonstrate that government can act lawfully in the common interest.
Trump and American Vetocracy, Prof. Frankly Fukuyama, 2 January 2026
