I witnessed the Pinochet regime’s fall. It offers hope – and a warning – for the US | Ariel Dorfman
Summary
The author compares Chile’s 1988 vote that ended dictator Augusto Pinochet’s rule to the current political situation in the United States under President Donald Trump. The article highlights the importance of voters, institutions, and the military in preventing authoritarianism and protecting democracy ahead of the 2024 US elections.Key Facts
- In 1988, Chile held a vote (plebiscite) to decide whether Pinochet would continue ruling or allow a transition to democracy.
- Pinochet lost the vote with around 56% voting against him, despite attempts to block the results and hold an auto-coup.
- The military eventually accepted the outcome, which led to Chile transitioning to democracy beginning in 1990.
- The article compares this moment to the current US political context under President Donald Trump ahead of the November 2024 midterm elections.
- There are concerns Trump might reject election outcomes, similar to Pinochet’s attempts to disavow his loss.
- The author stresses the need for civilians, institutions, and loyal military forces to uphold the law and democracy.
- The article warns that removing an authoritarian leader does not erase the lasting damage caused during their rule.
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