Human Rights Watch: Trump Policies Threaten US Democracy

Human Rights Watch warned today that policies under President Donald Trump are undermining the human rights essential to democracy. The warning came as the United States prepares to celebrate the 250th anniversary of its Declaration of Independence. The organization released a web feature detailing new threats emerging in 2026 alone. “Respect for human rights and fundamental freedoms is an essential element of democracy,” said Tanya Greene, US director at Human Rights Watch. “The Trump administration has been violating human rights across the board, including many that are intrinsically bound up with the meaningful exercise of democracy.” According to the group, the administration has weakened or threatened the rule of law, free speech, the right to vote, and key oversight and transparency systems. Human Rights Watch documented specific abuses, including the elimination of federal civil rights protections against discrimination, abusive and racist immigration enforcement, new restrictions on voter registration, and moves to block reproductive rights. “The US should celebrate the nation’s founding principles and promise,” Greene said. “That includes acknowledging and challenging its failings and working to guarantee human rights and democracy for all.”