In this episode of The Deep Dive we investigate competitive authoritarianism — the subtle, legalistic playbook that lets leaders entrench power without classic coups. Host and expert guests unpack the three core tactics (rule manipulation, institutional capture via patronage, and governing by fear), a hypothetical DOJ election-intrusion scenario, and chilling real-world cases from Hungary and Turkey.

We also examine hopeful reversals in Slovakia and Brazil and synthesize a practical pro-democracy playbook: insulating civil service and security forces, defending independent courts, building broad cross-ideological coalitions, protecting the free press, and mobilizing early and peacefully.

Listen for clear explanations from scholars and analysts, key warning signs to watch, and actionable strategies for preserving democratic norms — and why urgency matters if democracies are to avoid long-term entrenchment.