The Cost of Political Polarization: Authoritarianism in the United States

Authors

Gabrielle Graff, Binghamton University--SUNY

Publication Date

2025

Document Type

Book

Description

Does congressional polarization contribute to authoritarian tendencies within the United States? The growing political divide in the government and the general public raises concern regarding possible long-term changes to the institution, including the threat of democratic backsliding - the gradual movement of an institution away from democratic values toward authoritarian values. Although diverse political ideas promote healthy democratic function, complete polarization erodes democratic institutions while supporting authoritarian behavior. Authoritarianism thrives on the exclusion of out-groups and division among the populace. Under the current American institution, a polarized Congress is ineffective in producing policy. This project explores how the political system of the United States adjusts to these congressional deficiencies and the degree to which these adjustments are considered authoritarian.

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Recommended Citation

Graff, Gabrielle, "The Cost of Political Polarization: Authoritarianism in the United States" (2025). Research Days Posters 2025. 59.
https://orb.binghamton.edu/research_days_posters_2025/59