![[Pillars of Democracy 01.png]] In turbulent and chaotic times, it is easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. This page serves as a focused tool for assessing the state of American democracy, cutting through the noise to highlight key democratic pillars and the threats they face. By identifying patterns of democratic erosion and authoritarian tendencies, this resource provides clarity in a rapidly shifting political landscape, helping to track where the nation stands and what is at stake. ### The List | <font color="#4f81bd">**Pillar**</font> | <font color="#4f81bd">**Description**</font> | <font color="#4f81bd">Threat<br>Level</font> | | --------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ | --------------------------------------------------------------------------- | | **Sovereignty of the People** | The government derives its authority from the will of the people. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Sovereignty of the People**\| 3]] | | **Rule of Law** | Laws apply equally to all citizens, including leaders, ensuring justice and accountability. | [[Pillars of Democracy#Rule of Law \| 3]] | | **Separation of Powers** | Division of government into executive, legislative, and judicial branches to prevent concentration of power. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Separation of Powers**\| 4]] | | **Free and Fair Elections** | Regular, transparent elections allow citizens to choose their representatives. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Free and Fair Elections**\| 4]] | | **Protection of Rights and Freedoms** | Fundamental rights such as freedom of speech, press, religion, and assembly are safeguarded. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Protection of Rights and Freedoms**\|3]] | | **Political Pluralism and Tolerance** | Multiple political parties, diverse opinions, and tolerance for differing views are encouraged. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Political Pluralism and Tolerance**\|4]] | | **Citizen Participation** | People engage in governance through voting, civic activism, and public discourse. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Citizen Participation**\|3]] | | **Independent Judiciary** | Courts operate without political influence to ensure fair enforcement of laws. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Independent Judiciary**\|4]] | | **Accountability and Transparency** | Leaders are held accountable through checks and balances, oversight institutions, and a free press. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Independent Judiciary**\|5]] | | **Economic and Social Equity** | Efforts to ensure fair access to opportunities, reduce corruption, and promote social justice. | [[Pillars of Democracy#**Economic and Social Equity**\|4]]<center></center> | --- --- ## **Sovereignty of the People** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > > Donald Trump's recent actions have raised concerns about undermining the principle of popular sovereignty—the foundational democratic concept that governmental power derives from the will of the people. Key examples include: > > 1. **Disregard for Constitutional Norms**: Legal experts have condemned Trump's recent executive actions, such as banning birthright citizenship and firing inspectors general without notifying Congress, as unprecedented violations of the U.S. Constitution and federal laws. These moves are seen as attempts to overwhelm opponents and erode constitutional norms. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-orders-constitution-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Issuance of Controversial Executive Orders**: Upon returning to office, Trump enacted a series of executive orders targeting undocumented immigrants, canceling federal diversity programs, and removing anti-corruption inspectors. These actions, perceived as a power grab from Congress, have sparked widespread upheaval within the U.S. government. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Centralization of Power**: The administration's efforts to control government spending and the appointment of allies like Elon Musk to federal agency leadership roles have been viewed as moves to centralize power within the executive branch, potentially diminishing the role of the legislative branch and undermining the system of checks and balances. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions have led to significant concerns about the erosion of democratic principles and the concentration of power away from the populace, thereby undermining the sovereignty of the people. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Rule of Law** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining the rule of law in the United States. Key areas of concern include: > > 1. **Disregard for Constitutional Norms**: Trump has issued executive orders that legal experts argue violate the U.S. Constitution and federal laws. Actions such as attempting to ban birthright citizenship, firing inspectors general without proper notification to Congress, and freezing federal spending without legislative approval have been described as a "blitzkrieg on the law and the constitution," overwhelming opponents through their frequency and impact. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-orders-constitution-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Consolidation of Power**: Trump's rapid series of executive orders upon returning to the White House, including purging senior officials and attempting to control government spending, have been perceived as efforts to centralize authority and diminish the role of Congress. Legal challenges have forced some strategies to retreat, but experts warn of significant long-term changes to the structure and independence of the U.S. government. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Suppression of Dissent and Civil Rights**: Executive actions targeting immigration, employment, education, technology, justice reform, and the federal workforce have been viewed as attempts to unravel progress toward a more equitable and inclusive society. These actions have raised concerns about the erosion of civil rights and the suppression of dissenting voices. ([bsg.ox.ac.uk](https://www.bsg.ox.ac.uk/blog/president-trumps-immigration-executive-orders-are-assault-rule-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Cult of Personality and Nationalism**: Trump's rhetoric often emphasizes ultranationalism and personal loyalty, elements commonly associated with fascist movements. His speeches and public statements frequently focus on themes of national decline and betrayal, promising to restore the nation's greatness through strong, centralized leadership. ([theatlantic.com](https://www.theatlantic.com/magazine/archive/2024/11/george-washington-nightmare-donald-trump/679946/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 3. **Undermining Democratic Institutions**: Efforts to overturn the 2020 election results, including filing numerous lawsuits, urging local and state authorities to overturn results, and pressing the Justice Department to verify unsupported claims of election fraud, have been seen as direct attacks on the democratic process. These actions have raised significant concerns about the erosion of constitutional norms and the rule of law in the U.S. ([brennancenter.org](https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/analysis-opinion/trump-and-rule-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions and behaviors have led scholars, legal experts, and political commentators to draw parallels between Trump's conduct and fascist principles, raising alarms about the potential erosion of democratic norms in the United States. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Separation of Powers** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining the separation of powers, a foundational principle of the U.S. Constitution designed to prevent any one branch of government from accumulating excessive authority. Key instances where Trump has been perceived to undercut this balance include: > > 1. **Overreach Through Executive Orders**: Trump issued a series of executive orders that legal experts argue exceeded presidential authority and encroached upon legislative powers. Notably, he attempted to ban birthright citizenship, dismissed 18 inspectors general without the required congressional notification, and froze federal spending without legislative approval. These actions have been described as a "blitzkrieg on the law and the constitution," overwhelming opponents through their frequency and impact. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-orders-constitution-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Impoundment of Congressionally Approved Funds**: In his second term, Trump issued an executive order to freeze federal spending, including funds already appropriated by Congress for various programs. This move disrupted essential services and was challenged in court, with judges ruling it likely violated the Constitution. Such actions have been viewed as attempts to shift power from Congress to the executive branch, contravening the 1974 Impoundment Control Act, which restricts the president from withholding funds approved by Congress. ([ft.com](https://www.ft.com/content/a221a10a-5ac2-47b6-ba8b-30e18553c181?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Mass Firings of Federal Officials**: Trump oversaw mass firings of federal workers at various agencies, many of them described as breaking with precedent or federal law and with the intent to replace them with workers more aligned with Trump's agenda. On January 24, 2025, less than a week into his second term, he fired 17 independent inspectors general at federal agencies, which appeared to violate federal law that requires advance notice of dismissals to both chambers of Congress with reasons given 30 days in advance. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Second_presidency_of_Donald_Trump?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Advocacy for Unitary Executive Theory**: Trump and his allies have promoted the unitary executive theory, which posits that the president possesses the authority to control the entire executive branch. This perspective challenges the traditional checks and balances by seeking to place independent agencies, such as the Department of Justice and the Federal Communications Commission, under direct presidential control, thereby diminishing their independence. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agenda_47?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions have prompted legal challenges and widespread criticism, with experts warning that such moves threaten the constitutional framework and the balance of power among the branches of government. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Free and Fair Elections** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining the integrity of free and fair elections in the United States. Key areas of concern include: > > 1. **Persistent False Claims of Election Fraud**: Following his loss in the 2020 presidential election, Trump persistently propagated baseless allegations of widespread voter fraud. He filed numerous lawsuits, all of which were dismissed due to lack of evidence, and pressured state officials to overturn certified results. These actions culminated in the January 6 Capitol insurrection, where his supporters attempted to disrupt the certification of the electoral vote. This campaign to delegitimize the electoral process eroded public trust in democratic institutions. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attempts_to_overturn_the_2020_United_States_presidential_election?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Undermining Election Security Agencies**: Trump's administration took steps that weakened agencies responsible for election security. Notably, the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), which had been instrumental in assisting states to secure their voting systems, faced an uncertain future under his leadership. The administration's actions, including the dismissal of officials who contradicted Trump's false claims, compromised the agency's effectiveness and independence. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/d17f40ad31f85a7538a7904efbea6b49?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Politicization of the Department of Justice**: Trump nominated Pam Bondi, a known ally who supported his attempts to overturn the 2020 election, to lead the Department of Justice. This move signaled a potential shift in the department's priorities, with an increased focus on prosecuting alleged voter fraud rather than preventing voter suppression. Such a shift could disproportionately affect marginalized communities and suppress voter turnout. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/28ffe85f81e7edf95064e5192c3efce1?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Disruption of Federal Election Oversight**: In the lead-up to the 2024 election, Republican-led states, influenced by Trump's rhetoric, refused to allow federal election monitors into polling places. This action hindered the enforcement of federal voting rights laws and raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of the electoral process. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Republican_Party_efforts_to_disrupt_the_2024_United_States_presidential_election?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 3. **Pardoning Individuals Involved in Election-Related Violence**: Trump's decision to pardon individuals convicted for their roles in the January 6 Capitol attack sent a concerning message about accountability for actions that undermine democratic processes. This move was perceived as condoning political violence and further eroded norms essential for maintaining free and fair elections. ([politico.com](https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/23/january-6-pardons-washington-trump-006212?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions collectively represent a significant departure from established democratic norms and have raised alarms about the potential erosion of the foundational principles that ensure free and fair elections in the United States. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Protection of Rights and Freedoms** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining the protection of rights and freedoms in the United States. Key areas where his policies have been perceived as infringing upon civil liberties include: > > 1. **Rollback of LGBTQ+ Protections**: Trump issued executive orders that reversed protections for transgender and non-binary individuals. These orders mandated the recognition of only two biological sexes, prohibited the use of federal funds to support "gender ideology," and restricted gender-affirming care. They also denied passport gender markers that do not conform to the male-female binary and transferred transgender women in federal custody to men's prisons. These actions have been criticized for endangering the rights and safety of transgender individuals. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/3c14ecbdd10f61618384e81624d090fb?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Elimination of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs**: Trump dismantled federal DEI initiatives, placing staff on leave and rescinding policies that promoted affirmative action. This move has been viewed as a significant setback for efforts to address systemic discrimination and promote workplace equality. ([time.com](https://time.com/7210039/what-is-dei-trump-executive-order-companies-diversity-efforts/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Restrictions on Educational Content**: Through executive orders, Trump targeted the teaching of critical race theory and gender-related topics in schools, threatening to withhold federal funds from institutions that support the social transition of minor students. This includes mandates that teachers inform parents of a student's gender identity changes, potentially exposing students to harm in unsupportive environments. ([them.us](https://www.them.us/story/how-trump-radical-indoctrination-executive-order-targets-trans-youth-schools?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Suppression of Workplace Protections**: Directives were issued to remove discussions on gender identity and transition within the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), leading to the dismissal of key personnel advocating for LGBTQIA+ rights. This has caused significant disruption within the agency responsible for enforcing workplace discrimination laws. ([newyorker.com](https://www.newyorker.com/news/the-lede/trumps-orders-sow-chaos-inside-the-nations-enforcer-of-equal-opportunity?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 3. **Limitation of Reproductive Rights**: The administration took steps to restrict access to reproductive healthcare, including advancing the federal death penalty and eliminating executive orders on policing that were created to advance common-sense reforms. These actions have been viewed as attempts to reverse progress on civil rights and drive division. ([lawyerscommittee.org](https://www.lawyerscommittee.org/trumps-actions-on-executive-orders-harm-civil-rights/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These policies have faced legal challenges and widespread criticism from civil rights organizations, which argue that they represent deliberate attempts to reverse progress on diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility, creating new barriers to opportunity and undermining fundamental rights and freedoms. ([aclu.org](https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/trumps-executive-orders-rolling-back-dei-and-accessibility-efforts-explained?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Political Pluralism and Tolerance** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised concerns about undermining political pluralism and tolerance in the United States. Key areas of concern include: > > 1. **Dismantling Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives**: Trump issued executive orders to abolish federal DEI programs, arguing that they promote division. This move led several major companies to scale back their DEI efforts, potentially reducing workplace diversity and inclusivity. ([nypost.com](https://nypost.com/2025/01/31/business/trump-pushes-companies-to-abandon-dei-initiatives-but-these-businesses-wont-back-down/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Targeting Diversity Efforts in Federal Agencies**: Following a plane crash, Trump blamed the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) diversity hiring initiatives, despite a lack of evidence linking these measures to the incident. He suggested that hiring individuals with disabilities compromised the FAA's effectiveness, a claim that drew criticism from civil rights advocates who emphasized that all FAA hires must meet stringent qualifications. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/cc629bb66fb9afdad01c5ad735ca3cbb?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Erosion of Liberal Democratic Norms**: Trump's administration has been characterized by a suppression of liberal democratic norms, with reduced institutional resistance to his policies and actions. This includes the marginalization of dissenting voices within the national security establishment and concerns about the erosion of pluralism, potentially leading to a slide towards an illiberal democracy where checks and balances are weakened. ([thetimes.co.uk](https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/strongman-trump-erodes-us-liberal-instincts-rhtfdjlhn?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions have been perceived as undermining political pluralism and tolerance, leading to a more polarized and less inclusive political environment. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Citizen Participation** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining citizen participation in the democratic process. Key areas where his policies and rhetoric have been perceived as discouraging or suppressing public engagement include: > > 1. **Voter Suppression Efforts**: Trump and his allies have been involved in initiatives that could disenfranchise millions of voters, particularly those from marginalized communities. These efforts include promoting restrictive voting laws and spreading false claims about widespread voter fraud, which can deter individuals from participating in elections. ([aclu.org](https://www.aclu.org/news/voting-rights/how-donald-trumps-election-lies-and-other-anti-voter-policies-will-continue-to-impact-our-democracy?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Intimidation of Political Opponents**: Throughout his political career, Trump has threatened to use governmental power to target his political adversaries. This approach fosters a climate of fear and discourages citizens from engaging in political activities or expressing dissenting opinions. ([citizensforethics.org](https://www.citizensforethics.org/reports-investigations/crew-investigations/trump-has-threatened-dozens-of-times-to-use-the-government-to-target-political-enemies/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Erosion of Free Speech Protections**: Despite signing an executive order purportedly to protect free speech, Trump's rhetoric and actions have often been hostile toward dissenting voices, particularly in the media. This hostility can create a chilling effect, discouraging citizens from participating in public discourse. ([theatlantic.com](https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2024/11/donald-trump-hates-free-speech/680515/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Discrediting Electoral Processes**: By consistently alleging electoral fraud without evidence, Trump has undermined public confidence in the electoral system. This erosion of trust can lead to voter apathy, as citizens may feel their participation is futile in a rigged system. ([nymag.com](https://nymag.com/intelligencer/article/trump-2024-election-denial-plans.html?utm_campaign=feed-part&utm_medium=social_acct&utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions collectively pose a threat to active citizen engagement, which is essential for a healthy democracy. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Independent Judiciary** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining the independence of the judiciary, a cornerstone of the American democratic system. Key areas where his conduct has been perceived as compromising judicial autonomy include: > > 1. **Public Attacks on Judges and Courts**: Trump has a history of publicly criticizing judges who rule against his policies, often in personal terms. For instance, he referred to U.S. District Judge James Robart as a "so-called judge" after Robart blocked his travel ban. Such attacks are unprecedented and have been criticized for potentially eroding public confidence in the judiciary. ([brennancenter.org](https://www.brennancenter.org/our-work/research-reports/his-own-words-presidents-attacks-courts?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Politicization of Judicial Appointments**: Throughout his presidency, Trump and his attorneys general have worked to turn the Department of Justice and the federal judiciary into political instruments, thereby delegitimizing both institutions. This includes appointing judges perceived as loyalists and dismissing career prosecutors involved in investigations against him. ([americanprogress.org](https://www.americanprogress.org/article/trumps-politicization-justice-system/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Disregard for Judicial Independence**: Trump's actions, such as firing inspectors general without proper notification to Congress and issuing executive orders that legal experts argue violate the U.S. Constitution, have been described as a "blitzkrieg on the law and the constitution." These moves are seen as attempts to consolidate power and undermine the checks and balances essential to judicial independence. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-orders-constitution-law?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Pardoning Individuals Convicted of Attacking the Judiciary**: In a controversial move, Trump issued blanket pardons to individuals convicted or awaiting trial for their roles in the January 6th Capitol riot. This action was perceived as undermining the judiciary by absolving individuals who had directly attacked the legislative branch and, by extension, the rule of law. ([newyorker.com](https://www.newyorker.com/news/the-lede/the-doors-to-the-patriot-wing-are-thrown-open?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions have prompted widespread concern among legal experts and former officials, who warn that such conduct threatens the foundational principle of judicial independence and the overall system of checks and balances in the United States. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Accountability and Transparency** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's actions have raised significant concerns about undermining accountability and transparency within the U.S. government. Key areas where his policies and conduct have been perceived as compromising these democratic principles include: > > 1. **Dismissal of Inspectors General**: In January 2025, Trump abruptly fired at least 17 independent federal watchdogs, including inspectors general from departments such as Defense, State, and Agriculture. These dismissals were executed without the legally required 30-day notice to Congress, leading to bipartisan criticism and concerns over the erosion of governmental oversight mechanisms. ([politico.com](https://www.politico.com/news/2025/01/25/donald-trump-inspectors-general-firing-00200611?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Issuance of Controversial Executive Orders**: Upon returning to office, Trump enacted a series of executive orders targeting undocumented immigrants, canceling federal diversity programs, and removing anti-corruption inspectors. These actions were perceived as a power grab from Congress, with legal challenges forcing some strategies to retreat. Experts warn that Trump's aggressive approach could result in significant long-term changes to the structure and independence of the U.S. government. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Undermining Transparency in Federal Agencies**: The administration's actions, including the dismissal of officials who contradicted Trump's false claims, compromised the effectiveness and independence of agencies responsible for election security. This erosion of transparency within federal agencies has raised concerns about the integrity of governmental operations. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Politicization of the Department of Justice**: Trump nominated individuals perceived as loyalists to lead the Department of Justice, signaling a potential shift in the department's priorities. This move raised concerns about the erosion of the department's independence and its role in upholding the rule of law. ([theguardian.com](https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2025/feb/01/trump-executive-order-power-grab?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > These actions collectively represent a significant departure from established democratic norms, raising alarms about the potential erosion of accountability and transparency within the U.S. government. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] --- ## **Economic and Social Equity** > [!WARNING] **THREAT!** > President Donald Trump's policies have been criticized for undermining economic and social equity in several key areas: > > 1. **Tax Policies Favoring the Wealthy**: The 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act significantly reduced corporate tax rates from 35% to 21% and lowered the top individual tax rate from 39.6% to 37%. Analyses indicate that these changes disproportionately benefited high-income individuals and corporations, thereby exacerbating income and wealth inequality. ([en.wikipedia.org](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tax_Cuts_and_Jobs_Act?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Trade Policies and Tariffs**: The imposition of substantial tariffs on imports from countries like Canada, Mexico, and China has been criticized for potentially increasing consumer prices and disrupting supply chains. Such measures can disproportionately affect low- and middle-income households, which spend a larger share of their income on goods subject to tariffs. ([apnews.com](https://apnews.com/article/753a09d56cd318f2eb1d2efe3c43b7d4?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 1. **Immigration Policies Impacting Labor Markets**: Aggressive immigration enforcement and mass deportation initiatives have led to labor shortages in sectors heavily reliant on immigrant workers, such as agriculture and child care. These shortages can drive up costs for services and goods, disproportionately impacting working-class families. ([barrons.com](https://www.barrons.com/articles/trump-deportations-return-to-work-child-care-caf5af59?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > 2. **Rollback of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives**: Executive orders aimed at dismantling DEI programs within federal agencies have been viewed as efforts to reverse progress on workplace equality and accessibility. Critics argue that these actions create new barriers to opportunity for marginalized communities. ([aclu.org](https://www.aclu.org/news/racial-justice/trumps-executive-orders-rolling-back-dei-and-accessibility-efforts-explained?utm_source=chatgpt.com)) > > Collectively, these policies have been seen as contributing to greater economic disparity and social inequity in the United States. [[Pillars of Democracy#The List | Back to Pillars]] Updated February 19, 2025