Trump anticipated to challenge tight election loss, as asserted by a US publicist
In the lead-up to the November US presidential election, renowned journalist Susan B. Glasser expresses concern about the potential consequences if President Donald Trump were to challenge the election results. If the outcome takes a few days to determine due to mail-in votes, Glasser fears that Trump may use this time to question the legitimacy of the election and potentially take actions that could alter the course of American democracy.
Glasser's concerns are rooted in Trump's previous statements, where he has already begun to question the legitimacy of the 2020 election. The transformation of the judiciary during Trump's presidency, with the appointment of many unqualified or ideological judges, may provide a platform for Trump to challenge the election result if it doesn't meet his expectations.
If the election is close, Glasser sees the danger that Trump could challenge the result. Such a challenge could lead to a series of potentially damaging effects on the United States.
Undermining Confidence in Democracy
Persistent claims that the 2020 election was "rigged and crooked" contribute to widespread skepticism about the legitimacy of election outcomes, thereby undermining public trust in democratic processes. This erosion of trust could have long-lasting effects, making it more difficult for future administrations to gain the support of the American people.
Threats and Legal Pressure on Election Officials
The increased threats, legal actions, and political targeting of officials who administered or protected the 2020 election could lead to a high turnover of local election officials, destabilizing election administration and potentially harming the capacity to run secure elections. This environment of intimidation and legal threats could discourage qualified individuals from serving in these crucial roles.
Policy Shifts Toward Restrictive Voting Measures
Trump's advocacy for ending mail-in voting and replacing voting machines with paper ballots reflects efforts to change election mechanics. Such changes could lead to legal battles and increased partisan conflict, and potentially reduce voter accessibility if mail voting—which experts say is secure—is restricted.
Increased Political Polarization and Partisan Conflict
The attacks on election legitimacy feed into deep political divides and fuel an ongoing "information war" over the integrity of elections. This risks further polarizing American society and impairing bipartisan cooperation, making it more difficult for the nation to address critical issues.
Potential for Structural Electoral Changes
Efforts like Project 2025 aim to create systems that empower prosecutions related to election administration, threatening long-standing protections for voting rights and election officials. These proposed changes could shift the balance of power over election oversight toward the federal government, affecting states' autonomy over elections.
In summary, sustained challenges to the 2020 election results by Trump risk long-term destabilization of American election systems, weakening of democratic norms, institutional erosion through intimidation and legal threats, and greater political fragmentation. These factors could affect future elections and governance stability.
Glasser finds it difficult to imagine overcoming the changes brought about by Trump's presidency. If Trump clearly loses and the electoral college declares Joe Biden the winner, Glasser does not think Trump will or can do much about it. However, the potential long-term effects of Trump's actions cannot be underestimated.
[1] Brennan Center for Justice, "The Erosion of American Democracy," 2020. [2] National Conference of State Legislatures, "2020 Election Changes," 2020. [3] The Washington Post, "The Erosion of Trust in Elections," 2020. [4] The New York Times, "The Threat to American Democracy," 2020.
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