President Trump's assertive leadership style raises concerns about democratic principles in the U.S., with recent actions highlighting his preference for ultimatums over negotiations. This approach, coupled with moves to control independent institutions like Harvard University, has sparked fears of authoritarianism.

President Donald Trump takes pride in his identity as a dealmaker; however, his approach leans more towards issuing ultimatums rather than fostering compromise. Recent actions reinforce this perception. Instead of engaging in prolonged negotiations, Trump has imposed tariffs on trading partners. Moreover, he has intensified pressure on the Federal Reserve to slash interest rates, and his administration has launched an investigation into the higher education sector, aiming to reshape universities to his liking.

For Trump, sealing a deal does not mean mutual concessions but rather an opportunity to subjugate others to his will. While he occasionally retracts his threats, recent events underscore that such tactics are intrinsic to his leadership style.

As Trump strengthens his influence over independent institutions, there are increasingly fewer restraints on his authority. Congressional Republicans wary of primary challenges backed by him, along with a Supreme Court now comprising nominees from his first term, further embolden his grasp.

Recently, Trump elucidated his stance during discussions concerning international trade negotiations, asserting, "They don't set the deal, I set the deal."

His supporters assert that this assertiveness is necessary within a political landscape where he is besieged by Democrats, the judiciary, and the media. From their viewpoint, the president is merely striving to realize the objectives he was elected to accomplish.

However, critics are alarmed by what they perceive as an authoritarian drift, fearing it jeopardizes the nation’s democratic foundations. They argue that Trump's focus on negotiations masks an underlying aim to dominate adversaries and amplify his power.

"Pluralism and a diversity of institutions acting autonomously-be it companies, the judiciary, or nonprofit entities crucial to societal fabric-are the bedrock of genuine democracy," expressed Larry Summers, former Treasury Secretary and past Harvard University president. "This is endangered by coercive and extortionate tactics."

Asserting Control over Higher Education

Harvard University has emerged as a focal point of Trump’s scrutiny, beginning in April when he demanded reforms to its governance and the inclusion of faculty members to counter perceived liberal bias.

In resistance, Harvard faced the cessation of $2.2 billion in federal grants, crucial for its expansive research initiatives spanning cancer studies, Parkinson’s disease, space exploration, and pandemic readiness.

Moreover, Trump has moved to restrict approximately 7,000 foreign students from attending Harvard and has threatened to rescind its tax-exempt status. His administration has recently subpoenaed the university, requesting access to student data.