It’s not funny: Trump’s dictatorial ambitions

I’ve been watching the recent Trump news with growing unease. As a Canadian, it’s tough feeling like we’re bystanders to a very loud and messy show next door—especially without being in a political seat, running a mega-corporation, or holding any real clout that might get us on the guest list of a diplomatic dinner. Yet, here we are, in the bleachers, forced to see how this sequel might play out. And frankly, the teasers are ominous.

The concern

Donald Trump has repeatedly shown admiration for some fairly disturbing historical figures. He’s expressed a fondness for dictators and the whole “absolute power, no oversight” aesthetic. Mix that with his love of “grandness” and it’s enough to make even the calmest among us wonder if he dreams of standing on a balcony somewhere, wearing a flashy uniform—maybe with a gold-plated comb-over cover.

Now, before anyone starts sputtering with, “He’s too foolish to pull it off,” let’s remember: pure intellect is not necessarily the golden ticket to power. Ruthlessness, an unflinching sense of entitlement, and an uncanny knack for evading consequences can go a long way—sometimes farther than raw intelligence. Trump has spent a lifetime dodging accountability, so why would he stop now?

Drawing parallels to historical dictatorships

Throughout history, we’ve seen the blueprint for how authoritarian regimes come to power.

Trump has explicitly praised dictators who demand unwavering loyalty. That tells us something about what he might truly desire if he re-enters the highest office with more institutional knowledge and fewer inhibitions.

He’s already toyed with statements like, “When you call it an emergency, you can do anything.” Let that sink in. The “emergency powers” approach was famously used by Hitler after the Reichstag fire in 1933, to justify suspending civil liberties and arresting political opponents. Similar patterns—whether in Stalinist USSR or other authoritarian regimes—often begin with stoking crisis or fear, then seizing extraordinary powers to combat said crisis. It’s a proven formula. And we all know how quickly “temporary” measures can become permanent when power is too juicy to relinquish.

The breakdown

1. Admiration of dictators

Historic precedent: Hitler rose to power by leveraging nationalism, paranoia about enemies (both foreign and domestic), and the allure of strong leadership.

Trump’s parallel: He’s openly praised dictatorial moves and leaders (e.g., his warm words for Kim Jong-un). He relishes the spectacle of vast rallies and thrives on the adoration of fervent supporters.

2. Emergency powers

Historic precedent: The Reichstag Fire Decree (1933) allowed Hitler to suspend civil liberties under the guise of national security.

Trump’s parallel: He’s already hinted that “emergencies” allow a leader to do practically anything. During his presidency, he used executive orders liberally. A second term could see those orders expand into something more dangerous if the “national emergency” card is played again.

3. Elimination of checks and balances

Historic precedent: Once in power, authoritarian regimes often dismantle institutions that keep them accountable—political opposition, trade unions, a free press.

Trump’s parallel: He consistently attacked the free press, calling it “the enemy of the people,” and is known for undermining individuals or organizations that stand in his way. Banning unions or restricting them further wouldn’t be far-fetched if they’re seen as a threat to total control.

4. Title and permanent power

Historic precedent: Dictators often rewrite constitutions, claim new titles, or extend terms indefinitely.

Trump’s parallel: He joked about serving longer than two terms. It doesn’t sound so far-fetched if “emergency conditions” make it “necessary” to prolong leadership—especially in his mind.

5. Expansion and influence

Historic precedent: Many dictators justify expanding territory or influence as a defense measure or a way to restore national pride.

Trump’s parallel: He’s mused about buying Greenland, claims deep love for Canada (though not necessarily an “I’d never invade you” kind of love), and has a pattern of ignoring international norms when it suits him.

The implications for Canada (and everyone else)

So, should we all start building bunkers in our backyards? Well, let’s not panic-build just yet. But the idea of a more brazen, unrestrained Trump administration forging ahead with these strongman tendencies is cause for real concern. Dictatorial fantasies can take root and flourish faster than we like to imagine—especially when sowed on fertile soil of conspiracy, discontent, and fear.

As Canadians, we might feel powerless, but we can (and should) stay vigilant and hopeful. Public opinion, international pressure, legal checks, and good old-fashioned protest can still shine a bright light on otherwise shadowy corridors of power. We can’t afford to dismiss this all as tabloid chatter. We’ve seen what happens when people avert their eyes until it’s too late.

At the end of the day (or the end of democracy?), Trump’s ambitions lean suspiciously close to the playbook of historical autocrats. Dictatorship doesn’t usually arrive waving a neon sign; it’s a steady creep, a series of “justified” steps that consolidate power bit by bit. And if we don’t stay mindful, it’s easy to wake up and discover the checks and balances have evaporated.

The terrifying reality is that Donald Trump, on a second go-round, is older, more determined, and less restrained. He’s learned a thing or two about the system he once called “rigged,” and ironically might rig it more in his own favor. Is that an inevitable outcome? Absolutely not. But the seeds are there, scattered across the political terrain. It’s up to us—yes, even powerless Canadians—to name the dangers, keep talking, and remind the world what’s at stake. Because if we don’t, “it can’t happen here” might very well become “wow, it happened here!”

Conclusion: Real steps & powers for Canadians

So, you might be sitting there, sighing into your coffee cup, wondering, “What can I possibly do about this film worthy super-villain?” The short answer: more than you think, even from a northern vantage point.

1. Stay loud & engaged

Squeaky wheel theory: In a democracy, politicians respond to the loudest squeaks. Call, email, tweet (politely assertive), and let your representatives know exactly what matters to you. It may feel small, but if enough of us do it, the squeak becomes a roar.

2. Support investigative journalism

Fund facts: Independent, fact-based media is one of the best antidotes to misinformation. Subscribe, donate, share reputable sources—be the neighbor who helps keep the news honest.

3. Vote & volunteer

Local, provincial, federal: Our elections matter! Participate in your local riding’s events, volunteer on campaigns you believe in, and encourage your friends to do the same. If democracy is a group project, you don’t want to be the slacker who didn’t show up for the final. The consequences of not engaging can truly change your world.

4. Build bridges, not echo chambers

A chat over coffee/tea: Not everyone is on the same political wavelength. Engage in respectful conversations to swap perspectives. The more we understand each other, the less fertile ground there is for extremism to sprout. We want to grow healthy political discourse and challenge the status quo so that real change takes shape rather than the change you get from war. No one wins in war.

5. Partner with allies

Cross-border connections: Americans aren’t just a monolith behind a big rhetorical wall. There are many groups and individuals in the U.S. who share our concerns. Collaborate, donate to legal defense funds or activist organizations, and amplify voices that defend democratic norms.

6. Keep the lights on

Watchdog vigilance: Shine a spotlight on any creeping authoritarian moves—here or abroad. The internet has a long memory. Document, share, and don’t let questionable acts slip by unremarked. Bad things happen when we let the light of history die, we need to remember and retell.

7. Support each other

Community first: Authoritarianism thrives on division. Here’s the point we should be most concerned by in our own country. If we look at each other as unforgivable enemies, or unreachable zombies, we will play right into the hands of those looking to feed on our division. We have to find common ground and keep building on that, keep going back to that common ground when the way seems blocked by un-negotiable boundaries. It’s going to be hard and sometimes painful. We need to find a way to love each other through the pain, and that means ugly family dinner parties where you might want to throw the mash potatoes at your great uncle Sal, because how could he support that way of thinking! Please, don’t throw the potatoes… they are delicious.

We need to create points of solidarity and agreement —helping with grassroots causes, supporting local businesses, supporting local needs for collective well-being, ensuring marginalized voices are heard— it all strengthens the social fabric that holds democracy together. Great Uncle Sal may never see your point of view, and maybe next year you have dinner with friends, but if you hang on, there might be something you both care about that can be a bridge that leads to something good.

Based in Fredericton, Anthea Plummer is an advocate for environmental and social justice who is committed to community empowerment. This piece was first published on social media on Jan. 26, 2025.