The article presents concerns about President Donald Trump's increasing authoritarian tendencies, particularly through his executive orders that challenge the autonomy of federal agencies. Drawing comparisons to historical monarchs like King James I, it highlights how the assertion of power mirrors dictatorial behavior. Concerns regarding governance by decree and the marginalization of legislative bodies are underscored, warning of a potential erosion of democracy in favor of a single ruler's will. The historical reference serves as a caution against the dangers of unchecked executive power.
The defining attribute of a dictatorship, as well as of kingship in its ancient and absolute form, is the assertion that law-its making, interpretation, adjudication, and enforcement-is an emanation of the will of one man.
Acting on this theory, James ruled without Parliament for long periods, granted dispensations from statutory law for courtiers and confidants, and generally conducted himself as an absolute monarch.
Trump's recent executive orders, notably the one purporting to eliminate the autonomy of federal independent agencies, are significant steps toward an American dictatorship.
His son Charles I was even more convinced of his divine right to absolute legal sovereignty, a disposition so resented by the English that in 1642 Parliament took up arms in a civil war.
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