In a provocative new book, Barbara McQuade, a former federal prosecutor and current law professor, draws unsettling parallels between Donald Trump’s leadership style and that of a mafia boss. Titled *The Fix: Saving America from the Corruption of a Mob-Style Government*, McQuade argues that Trump’s approach to governance undermines democratic institutions, echoing tactics used by notorious crime figures to exert control and instil fear. Through meticulous analysis, she outlines the implications of this shift for America’s political landscape.
A Dark Comparison: Trump as Don Corleone
In her opening chapters, McQuade likens Trump to Vito Corleone, the fictional mafia patriarch from *The Godfather*. She recalls a scene where Corleone offers a favour to a desperate man, implying that such favours come with strings attached. McQuade asserts that Trump operates under a similar principle, expecting reciprocity for every appointment or act of kindness he extends.
McQuade, who served as the U.S. attorney for the eastern district of Michigan from 2010 to 2017, has an extensive background in prosecuting corruption cases. Her insights provide a sharp critique of Trump’s governance, suggesting that he has adopted a transactional ethos reminiscent of organised crime. “Every time he does somebody a favour, he expects there to be a quid pro quo,” she states, emphasising the toxic dynamic Trump fosters within the political arena.
The Mechanics of Control
McQuade highlights specific instances where Trump has wielded his power to intimidate and manipulate. She discusses the Gordie Howe bridge project between Detroit and Canada, where Trump allegedly threatened to delay its opening unless he received political support from a donor. This, she argues, exemplifies how he exploits governmental authority to serve his interests, effectively “rigging the system” to consolidate power.
Moreover, McQuade draws on her experiences to illustrate how Trump’s tactics extend beyond mere threats. She notes that he has used executive orders to punish law firms that represented critics or investigated his actions. This has resulted in a chilling effect on legal and media entities that may otherwise challenge his authority. “When an extortionist makes a demand,” she explains, “people often think they can appease the bully and return to business as usual. But the bully always comes back for more.”
The Erosion of Democratic Norms
As McQuade delves deeper, she identifies the broader implications of Trump’s governance for American democracy. She draws parallels with historical examples of authoritarianism, citing the rise of oligarchs in post-Soviet Russia and the erosion of democratic norms in contemporary Hungary and Turkey. “We’re witnessing a similar hollowing out of democracy,” she warns, highlighting the “three Cs” of the Trump era: corruption, cruelty, and chaos.
The corruption McQuade identifies is glaring, from pardoning January 6 insurrectionists to accepting lavish gifts from foreign entities. The cruelty, she argues, is evident in the dehumanising rhetoric employed by Trump and his administration, particularly regarding immigration. The chaos manifests in the appointments of individuals to key positions based on loyalty rather than competence, endangering the effectiveness of government institutions.
A Call to Action: Reclaiming Democracy
Despite the grim picture she paints, McQuade’s work is not merely a lament. She offers a roadmap for civic engagement and resistance against what she describes as a “mob-style government.” Drawing on research that suggests even a small percentage of a population can instigate significant change through sustained peaceful protest, she encourages Americans to take an active role in their democracy.
McQuade calls for a renewal of grassroots efforts, urging citizens to run for local office and engage with community organisations like the League of Women Voters. She believes that a united front, transcending partisan divides, is essential for reclaiming democratic values. “We need to focus on what we have in common,” she insists, highlighting the importance of addressing pressing issues like the housing crisis and climate change.
Why it Matters
The implications of McQuade’s analysis extend far beyond individual political events; they touch on the very foundations of American democracy. By framing Trump’s governance in the context of organised crime, she compels readers to reconsider the normalisation of his tactics. As citizens grapple with rising political tensions and economic challenges, understanding the erosion of democratic principles is crucial for ensuring that the United States remains a nation governed by laws, not coercion. McQuade’s call to action serves as a reminder that the responsibility for safeguarding democracy ultimately lies with the people.