Recently, someone asked me on my personal Bluesky account: What do I believe are the long-term consequences of President Trump’s time in office for our country’s political integrity?

Let’s quickly define the word “integrity”:

Trump’s legacy will shape American politics for decades. He didn’t invent division, but he pushed it into the mainstream. By breaking norms, he proved that misinformation and anger can win elections. His legacy will test our democracy in three big ways.

First, extremism is now mainstream. Trump’s legacy gave far-right ideas a bigger stage. As a result, more candidates reject election results and use lies as strategy. Polarized primaries will keep fueling this. (Source: Pew Research Center, 2021)

Second, our institutions are weaker. He attacked courts, elections, and the press. That playbook stays in politics. Future leaders may bend rules if no one stops them. (Source: Brookings Institution, 2022)

Third, the public holds the line. Trump’s legacy makes clear: democracy only works if we defend it. Voters must demand truth, protect elections, and hold leaders accountable. (Source: Brennan Center for Justice, 2023)

Trump’s legacy shows how fragile democracy is. Whether we let it crack further — or rebuild trust — is up to us.

Thanks for asking me something other than if I am single or other personal questions that shouldn’t be asked right off the bat on a first message to someone. It is appreciated.

If you wish to ask a question, feel free to tag me in a bluesky post or email me directly at: judy@rescueourdemocracy.com!

Rescue our democracy, TOGETHER!

Judy T.