Dictator-proofing: How fragile is America’s democracy‪?‬ Checks and Balance from The Economist

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Donald Trump and Joe Biden are campaigning against a global backdrop of rising authoritarianism. Each candidate has accused the other of trying to destroy American democracy. But what are the constraints on the presidency, whoever holds the office? This week we consider whether the checks and balances the founding fathers put in place are still fit for purpose. Could a president tilt the country toward dictatorship?

Charlotte Howard hosts with James Bennet and Idrees Kahloon. Elizabeth Goitein of the Brennan Center for Justice and The Economist’s John Prideaux also contribute.

Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcasts

Get a world of insights for 50% off—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+

For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

Donald Trump and Joe Biden are campaigning against a global backdrop of rising authoritarianism. Each candidate has accused the other of trying to destroy American democracy. But what are the constraints on the presidency, whoever holds the office? This week we consider whether the checks and balances the founding fathers put in place are still fit for purpose. Could a president tilt the country toward dictatorship?

Charlotte Howard hosts with James Bennet and Idrees Kahloon. Elizabeth Goitein of the Brennan Center for Justice and The Economist’s John Prideaux also contribute.

Transcripts of our podcasts are available via economist.com/podcasts

Get a world of insights for 50% off—subscribe to Economist Podcasts+

For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account.

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