A post about the shoe being on the other foot

As I look on with anger and bewilderment at how the Republicans have degenerated, I have recently started to wonder about the State of the Democratic Party. Specifically, what would happen if an illiberal leftist leader in the mold of Hugo Chavez got elected and started violating Democratic norms. Would the Democrats condemn and work to curb those dangerous tendencies, even if they were popular with the party base?

I ask this because of the situation with the Republican Party. One thing to note is that throughout the 7 years that Trump has been active in political life, he has enjoyed the support of a solid base that has stuck with him even after January 6th. Time and time again, the main reason that Republicans have not stood up to Trump is because they are wary of crossing their base.

That their base demands such actions does not excuse the Republican elected officials at all. But the fact that it is almost politically impossible for them to acknowledge that Biden did not steal the 2020 elections makes me wonder how much spine the Democratic politicians would have if faced with the same situation. Would they dare to face the wrath of the illiberal Lefty leader and their adoring fans?

Democrats of course will pat themselves on the back and feel like they will never stop so low, but I am not so confident. Democrats need to take this opportunity to really reflect, recognize their vulnerabilities, and come up with plans to make sure they don’t go down the rabbit hole.

What do you think? Would Democrats have what it takes to stamp out illiberalism in it’s ranks if need be?

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