At the Connecticut Forum on June 17, former President Barack Obama issued a sharp critique of Donald Trump’s leadership, warning that the U.S. is “dangerously close” to becoming an autocracy.

Obama expressed concern about normalizing anti-democratic behavior, specifically referencing the current administration’s response to anti-ICE protests. “There is a weak commitment to what we understood as the foundations of a liberal democracy,” he said, citing the erosion of checks and balances and threats to the rule of law.

He emphasized the importance of pushback—not only from civil society and institutions outside government but also from bipartisan political leaders willing to stand up against anti-democratic actions. “What we’re seeing… is not consistent with American democracy,” Obama stated, comparing recent developments to autocratic regimes like Hungary under Viktor Orbán.

Autocracy, Obama explained, is a system where power rests in the hands of a single leader, often unchecked by advisors, courts, or the press. Citizens have little or no voice in governance—something he fears America may be approaching if current trends continue.

Despite the warning, Obama maintained a tone of cautious optimism. He encouraged young people to remain impatient with injustice while also building coalitions. “Change is a game of addition, not subtraction,” he said, urging unity over division.

His remarks followed the nationwide “No Kings” protests. While praising grassroots resistance, Obama also called on elected officials to take more active roles in defending democratic institutions.

Interestingly, critics note that Obama’s own administration deported more people annually than Trump’s.