Part 4/6:
In a grim reflection on power consolidation, some voices have articulated a chilling nine-step process that could lead to the abolition of democratic elections altogether. This sequence involves the militarization of domestic enforcement, suppression of dissent, creation of an environment of fear, and a breakdown of traditional democratic safeguards. Once these steps are taken, proponents argue, the final step becomes inevitable: the declaration that elections are no longer necessary, leaving the country under a de facto dictatorship.