After Trump, is the United States still a great experiment? Insights on its fragility

On July 4, 2026, the United States will celebrate its 250th birthday amidst growing concerns about its future. As Jonathan Freedland suggests, the nation, founded as a republic, now faces challenges that test its very foundation, particularly under the leadership of Donald Trump. The tension between hope and doubt has always been part of the American narrative.

Historical Context of American Fragility

The U.S. Constitution, lauded for its elegance, has revealed vulnerabilities in the face of power consolidation. Freedland references Benjamin Franklin’s warning: “A republic, if you can keep it.” This highlights the apprehension felt by the founders regarding the potential rise of autocracy, drawing parallels between Trump and historical figures like Franklin Roosevelt and Abraham Lincoln.

Many Americans are grappling with the implications of Trump's presidency. His actions, including the accumulation of power and controversial policies, echo the fears of the founders who anticipated the emergence of a leader resembling a monarch. Freedland stresses that the current political climate is a product of historical anxieties that have persisted since the nation’s inception.

The Question of Equality and Justice

Freedland points out a fundamental contradiction in the American narrative: the declaration that “all men are created equal” coexists with the legacy of slavery and the exclusion of women. This hypocrisy, embodied by figures such as Thomas Jefferson, raises critical questions about the nation’s commitment to its ideals. Jefferson himself acknowledged the moral weight of his actions, stating, “I tremble for my country when I reflect that God is just.”

As the nation reflects on its history, the challenge remains: how can America reconcile its founding principles with its historical injustices? The founders envisioned a system of checks and balances to prevent the rise of tyranny, yet Trump’s tenure has exposed significant weaknesses in this framework.

The Future of American Democracy

Despite the troubling developments, some argue that America has weathered numerous crises before, including civil wars and racial segregation. With a powerful military and a robust economy, Freedland notes that there is a belief that the U.S. can endure Trump’s presidency and the ideologies associated with it.

However, Freedland's perspective has evolved over the years. Once an unwavering supporter of the American ideal, he now questions whether the Constitution can withstand the pressures exerted by a leader who seeks personal gain. The delicate balance of power established by the founders is being tested like never before, and the implications of this struggle could shape the future of American democracy.