Expert on authoritarianism, Ruth Ben-Ghiat, has expressed concern over the implications of presidential candidate Nikki Haley‘s refusal to denounce Trump’s violent rhetoric, suggesting a creeping drift towards authoritarianism.
As reported by HuffPost, Ben-Ghiat wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter, “Apparently the idea of executing Milley is now the Party Line. We are living through real-time preparation for an authoritarian crackdown. We are in phase of “getting the public used to the idea of violence.” Having authoritative voices like Haley endorse violence is key.”
Haley, a former U.S. ambassador to the United Nations, declined to condemn Trump’s suggestion of executing retired Gen. Mark Milley. Haley branded the remark “irresponsible,” but did not consider it a disqualification for Trump’s potential presidential run.
In June, Ben-Ghiat warned that if Trump returns to the White House, he will “never leave,” describing the GOP as “an autocratic party operating in a democracy.”
See Also: Fierce Trump Critic Rep. Will Hurd Drops Out Of 2024 Presidential Race, Backs Nikki Haley
Despite facing sparse criticism from conservatives, Trump’s attack on Milley has prompted the top military leader to take safety precautions for himself and his family. Trump, who has been indicted four times, remains the 2024 Republican front-runner, polling at around 57%.
Haley, who is currently polling in third place with 7%, has been suggested as a potential running mate for Trump, should he win the nomination.
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