It looks like something familiar returning, after a long stretch in which it had quietly stopped working the way people thought it did.
Bibliography
1. Hungarian electoral reforms under Orbán — Post-2010 redistricting and electoral law changes that increased seat conversion advantages for the ruling party; documented in OSCE and international election-monitoring reports.
2. Viktor Orbán — Speech outlining Hungary as an “illiberal state,” defining the governing philosophy behind institutional changes.
3. Donald Trump — Public remarks praising Orbán’s leadership, particularly on immigration and sovereignty.
4. Donald Trump — Public endorsement describing Orbán as a “strong and powerful Leader,” reported by Reuters and other outlets.
5. J. D. Vance — Statements supporting Orbán’s political approach and framing it within Western identity politics.
6. The Heritage Foundation — Policy blueprint advocating expanded presidential control over the federal workforce and reduced bureaucratic independence.
7. Executive Order (January 20, 2025) — Reinstatement of a federal employment classification enabling easier removal of policy-related civil servants.
8. Inspector General removals (2025) — Reports confirming removal of at least 17 inspectors general across federal agencies, weakening oversight mechanisms.
9. Associated Press access dispute (2025) — Legal conflict involving restrictions on press access and editorial independence, with federal court involvement.