A Serious Warning on Authoritarianism — What Sen. Chris Murphy Says Is Already Underway

We aren't on the verge of an authoritarian takeover. We are in the middle of it.

But I worry people don't see the whole scheme. They just pay attention to each new daily outrage. So I went to the Senate floor to explain Trump's plan.

Here's a 🧵of the speech. It's important. pic.twitter.com/inHvtZKWDN

— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 8, 2025

Step 5 of the plan:

Rig the rules and the information. Tilt the election playing field your way and destroy the idea of truth. pic.twitter.com/q5hxc0E8aI

— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 8, 2025

I know this sounds extreme. It is.

I know I sound overly alarmist. I don't think I am.

Trump is enacting a well thought out plan so he and his allies can rule forever.

But it's not too late to stop them. We can peacefully and forcefully mobilize now. We have the power. pic.twitter.com/0f2nw60FOC

— Chris Murphy 🟧 (@ChrisMurphyCT) October 8, 2025

By Ricky Dana, Candidate for U.S. House – Missouri’s 4th District

A Serious Warning on Authoritarianism — What Sen. Chris Murphy Says Is Already Underway

We’re not “on the verge.” We’re living it. That’s the core of Sen. Chris Murphy’s message: connect the dots, and a pattern emerges. His Senate speech outlines tactics that, taken together, could undermine core democratic safeguards.

1) Justice as a Political Weapon

Risk: Turning prosecutions into partisan punishment erodes the idea that no one is above the law. Even attempts to steer cases create fear that silences honest voices.

2) Pressure on the Press

Risk: Threatening licenses or consolidating outlets under loyal owners narrows the public’s view. Democracy needs independent media able to challenge power.

3) Using Force to Intimidate

Risk: Deploying troops or federal agents against protests discourages civic participation and blurs the line between security and political control.

4) Controlling the Purse Strings

Context: The Constitution gives Congress taxing and spending power. Risk: Executive takeovers of that power weaken checks and balances meant to protect the public.

5) Rigging Rules and Undermining Truth

Context: Redistricting and disinformation shape who holds power and what citizens believe. Risk: When truth is attacked, voters lose the ability to decide for themselves.

Bottom Line

Connect the dots. Whether you agree with Senator Murphy or not, the institutions he describes—justice, media, military, Congress, and elections—are measurable indicators of the nation’s democratic health. Stay informed, watch how power is used, and participate in civic life. That’s how free people hold their leaders accountable.

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