Biggest Threats to American Democracy – What Experts Say

American democracy has long been seen as a beacon of freedom and fairness, but recent events and expert opinions suggest it’s facing serious challenges. From political division to misinformation and institutional erosion, the threats are real and growing. Experts across the political spectrum are raising concerns about the health of the U.S. democratic system, warning that without action, the consequences could be dire. In this article, we explore the biggest threats to American democracy based on what experts are saying and why these issues matter to every citizen.

The Rise of Political Polarization

One of the most pressing threats to American democracy is political polarization. Experts point out that Americans are increasingly divided, not just on policy issues but on basic values and facts. This division makes it hard for people to find common ground or even have civil conversations. Steven Levitsky, a Harvard professor and co-author of How Democracies Die, warns that extreme polarization can weaken democratic norms. When political opponents are seen as enemies rather than competitors, it becomes easier to justify actions that undermine fairness, like rejecting election results or attacking the press.

This polarization is fueled by social media and partisan media outlets, which often amplify outrage and misinformation. According to a 2025 report from the Pew Research Center, nearly 60% of Americans say they have little to no trust in news sources, which deepens distrust in institutions. When people can’t agree on basic facts, it’s harder to hold fair elections or maintain a functioning government. Experts urge citizens to seek out diverse perspectives and engage in respectful dialogue to bridge this divide.

Erosion of Trust in Elections

Another major threat is the growing distrust in the electoral process. Free and fair elections are the cornerstone of democracy, but recent years have seen increasing claims of voter fraud and election rigging, often without evidence. A Reuters/Ipsos poll from May 2025 found that only 65% of Americans are confident in the integrity of the electoral system, a significant drop from a decade ago. This skepticism can lead to dangerous outcomes, like the January 6, 2021, Capitol attack, which was driven by false claims about the 2020 election.

Experts like Rachel Bitecofer, a political strategist, argue that undermining election legitimacy is a slow-motion constitutional crisis. When political leaders or citizens refuse to accept election outcomes, it erodes the peaceful transfer of power—a key democratic principle. To address this, experts suggest stronger voter education, transparent election processes, and legal protections to prevent interference. Citizens can also play a role by verifying information before sharing it and supporting nonpartisan election oversight.

Threats to Free Speech and Dissent

The ability to speak freely and criticize the government is a fundamental democratic right, but some experts warn it’s under pressure. In a March 2025 article from The Conversation, scholars noted a “chilling effect” on free speech, where individuals and organizations hesitate to oppose certain policies due to fear of retaliation. This could include lawsuits, public attacks, or professional consequences. For example, Steven Levitsky told NPR in April 2025 that there’s now a “cost” to publicly opposing the government, which discourages open debate.

This threat isn’t just about censorship but about creating an environment where dissent feels risky. When people self-censor, democracy loses the robust exchange of ideas it needs to thrive. Experts recommend protecting whistleblowers, strengthening press freedoms, and encouraging public discourse to ensure dissent remains safe and valued.

Weakening of Institutional Checks

Democracy relies on strong institutions—like the courts, Congress, and independent agencies—to check power and uphold the rule of law. However, experts warn that these institutions are being tested. For instance, actions like pressuring courts to overturn election results or undermining the independence of agencies like the Justice Department can weaken these guardrails. A May 2025 NPR report highlighted concerns about the Foreign Emoluments Clause, which prevents officials from accepting foreign gifts, being ignored, raising questions about accountability.

Lucan Way, co-author with Levitsky, told Foreign Affairs in 2025 that the U.S. risks falling below the standards of a liberal democracy if these trends continue. This includes threats to judicial independence and the politicization of ethics offices. To counter this, experts call for reinforcing institutional integrity through bipartisan reforms and public oversight. Citizens can support this by staying informed and holding leaders accountable.

Misinformation and Foreign Influence

The spread of misinformation is another growing threat, amplified by technology and foreign actors. False narratives about elections, policies, or public figures can manipulate public opinion and destabilize democracy. A 2025 report from the Brookings Institution noted that foreign actors, like Russia and China, often exploit U.S. divisions to sow chaos, using social media to spread propaganda.

Combating misinformation requires a multi-pronged approach. Experts suggest improving media literacy, regulating tech platforms responsibly, and promoting fact-based journalism. Individuals can help by fact-checking information and avoiding the spread of unverified claims. As one expert put it, “Democracy thrives on truth, and we all have a role in protecting it.”

Economic Inequality and Political Power

Economic inequality is also a concern, as it can skew political influence. When wealth concentrates, those with resources can disproportionately shape policies, leaving ordinary citizens feeling powerless. A 2025 New York Times opinion piece argued that this disconnect between public opinion and government action is a major democratic threat. For example, budget decisions that prioritize tax cuts over social programs, as reported by The Washington Post in May 2025, can deepen this gap.

Experts like economist Thomas Piketty argue that reducing inequality through fair taxation and access to education can strengthen democracy. When people feel their voices matter, they’re more likely to engage in civic life. Citizens can advocate for policies that promote fairness and support candidates who prioritize the public good.

What Can Be Done?

The threats to American democracy are serious, but experts believe they’re not insurmountable. Strengthening democratic norms starts with collective action. Here are some steps experts recommend:

• Promote Civic Education: Teaching young people about democracy, critical thinking, and media literacy can build a more informed electorate.
• Support Independent Institutions: Advocate for laws that protect the independence of courts, election boards, and oversight agencies.
• Encourage Dialogue: Engage with people who hold different views to reduce polarization and rebuild trust.
• Combat Misinformation: Verify information before sharing and support trustworthy news sources.
• Get Involved: Vote, attend local government meetings, and hold leaders accountable to democratic principles.

A Call to Action

American democracy faces real challenges, from polarization to misinformation and institutional erosion. But experts emphasize that democracy is resilient when citizens actively protect it. As Steven Levitsky said, “Democracy isn’t just a system—it’s a practice.” Every American has a role in ensuring it endures. By staying informed, engaging respectfully, and demanding accountability, we can address these threats and strengthen the foundation of our nation.

The stakes are high, but so is the opportunity. Let’s listen to the experts, take their warnings seriously, and work together to safeguard American democracy for generations to come.

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