Populism in politics is a term that has gained increasing prominence in recent years. From the storming of the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, to the similar uprising in Brazil in 2023, far-right politicians are infringing on the democratic process in the name of populism. But what exactly is populism, and how does it manifest in different countries around the world?
In an interview, writer Thomas Frank discusses how populism brought together workers, farmers, and all those struggling against the wealthy elite. Populist leaders often claim to speak for the common people against a corrupt and out-of-touch political establishment. They promise to address the concerns and grievances of the ordinary citizens who feel marginalized and ignored by traditional political parties.
The former vice president didn't pull any punches in a headlining event at the New Hampshire Institute of Politics where he argued that populism is a double-edged sword. While it can mobilize disaffected voters and bring attention to important issues, it can also lead to division, polarization, and the erosion of democratic norms.
Must the Republican Party be either conservative or populist with no in between? That was a core contention of former vice president Mike, highlighting the ideological struggle within the party between traditional conservatism and the populist wave that propelled Donald Trump to power.
What do Donald Trump, Jeremy Corbyn, and Rodrigo Duterte have in common? Despite their differences, each man has been labelled a populist. They have tapped into the frustrations and fears of their supporters, promising radical change and challenging the status quo in their respective countries.
This article was originally published in the April 2018 issue of the Journal of Democracy. It is adapted from the remarks William A. Galston made in a conference on the rise of populism in Europe and the United States. Galston examines the historical roots and contemporary manifestations of populism in Western democracies.
Two possible narratives spring to mind. For some, recent events show that the UK is populist. For others, recent changes have helped to return power to the people and hold politicians accountable. The debate over populism is complex and multifaceted, with different interpretations depending on one's perspective.
Over the last decade, the global stage has become crowded with right-wing populist politicians seeking attention. It's a development that has reshaped the political landscape in many countries, challenging established norms and institutions. The rise of populism has sparked debates about the future of democracy and the role of leaders in a rapidly changing world.
Boris Johnson, Nicola Sturgeon, and Jeremy Corbyn - the three populist politicians who led their parties at the last general election now stand at a crossroads. Their leadership styles and policy agendas have reshaped the political discourse in the UK, with implications for the future of the country's political landscape. As populism continues to shape global politics, it remains a force to be reckoned with in the 21st century.
