When gatekeeping institutions fail, mainstream politicians must do everything possible to keep dangerous figures away from the centers of power.
In "How Democracies Die," Steven Levitsky discusses the critical role of gatekeeping institutions in maintaining democratic governance. These institutions are responsible for vetting individuals who seek positions of power, ensuring that only those who respect democratic norms ascend to leadership roles. When these institutions fail to function properly, it poses a significant risk to democracy. As a result, it becomes crucial for mainstream politicians to act decisively to prevent extremist or...