The military is the last safeguard of democracy. Is Donald Trump bending it to his will?
Trump's push for military to follow illegal orders raises fears of domestic targeting.
In November 2025, six Democratic lawmakers issued a video warning US military and intelligence personnel they can refuse illegal orders after Trump ordered airstrikes on boats off Latin America claimed to be drug runners. Legal experts argue the strikes and the arrest of Venezuela's Nicolas Maduro are illegal. The warning comes as Trump, since returning to office, has expanded power over his party, courts and people, now targeting the military. Penn State political scientist Joe Wright warns compelling the military to act illegally puts soldiers at risk and is a first step toward using them against domestic political opponents. The episode is part of the 'Making of an Autocrat' podcast series, produced by The Conversation Weekly.
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