The report "Varieties of Democracy" (V-Dem) is recognized as one of the largest democracy surveys globally, involving over 4,200 experts across more than 180 countries, with data gathered and analyzed by the University of Gothenburg. This year's report marks the first time that data concerning democracy in the United States has been analyzed since Donald Trump assumed a second term as President. The findings reveal that over the span of just one year, the state of democracy has worsened to such an extent that the country is now at a similar level to that of 1965, according to a composite democracy index that was assessed.

Professor Staffan I. Lindberg, who is associated with the University of Gothenburg, pointed out that the concentration of power has shifted from the legislative branch and the judicial system to the president. He noted that within this period, President Trump has issued 225 executive orders compared to only 49 laws passed by Congress. This indicates a troubling trend of diminishing power for democratic institutions and raises concerns about the future of democracy in the United States.

The implications of these findings suggest that the U.S. may face significant challenges in restoring its democratic principles after such a substantial shift in governance. As experts analyze these trends, the report underscores the need for vigilance in protecting democratic institutions and restoring balance among branches of power. With the foundational structures of democracy apparently eroded, the path to a robust recovery could prove to be difficult and long-lasting.