The United States is not going back to the way it was. Donald Trump won’t be president forever, but the damage he has done to the political system will last for decades. Millions of Americans are radicalized. Key government institutions are weakened.
Some remain optimistic about the 2026 midterms. They hope a Democratic victory will limit Trump’s influence. The thinking is that a win could curb his ability to rule by decree.
Trump’s warning about future elections
Trump has already expressed frustration about losing power. A Reuters report quoted him saying, “When you think of it, we shouldn’t even have an election.” He added that winning the presidency should be enough. According to Trump, democracy itself is a nuisance.
This statement is chilling. It shows he seriously questions the legitimacy of elections. Experts warn that comments like these are not just rhetoric. They reflect a willingness to consider extreme measures to maintain control.
Karoline Leavitt dismisses concern
Press secretary Karoline Leavitt brushed off Trump’s remarks during a briefing. She told reporters, “Only someone like you would take that so seriously.” Her response minimized the threat, framing it as a joke.
But history suggests otherwise. Trump often signals his intentions before acting. What seems absurd at first can later become reality. Analysts say dismissing his statements is risky.
The risk of a MAGA one-party state
Canceling elections would be a nuclear option for Trump and MAGA. They might justify it with a claim of “national emergency.” Even so, it would be the first step toward a one-party state. Critics warn that every move to consolidate power could further weaken democracy.
The 2026 midterms are not just about seats in Congress. They could be a test of whether Trump and his supporters respect the rules of democratic governance. The next few years will be critical in determining whether the United States can protect its electoral system from authoritarian threats.
