Populism and the political party: the enablers

Purpose The analysis here examines how political parties that once reflected democratic diversity are overtaken by populist leaders. In particular, we seek to link mid-20th century research on authoritarianism to the ways that leaders and members of political parties abandon democratic values and behaviors and, as avid supporters or co-opted former opponents, enable the populist autocratic-minded leader to compete and win elections while undermining the institutions and political processes that sustain democracies. Design/methodology/approach We will briefly examine two contrasting case studies—the United States Republican Party of upstart candidate, nominee and then President Donald Trump and the State of Israel Likud Party of longtime Prime Minister Benjamin (Bibi) Netanyahu—as examples of political parties that have been usurped to become obedient agents of leaders whose populism includes an authoritarian agenda. Findings We seek to link mid-20th century research on authoritarianism to the ways that leaders and members of political parties abandon democratic values and behaviors and, as avid supporters or co-opted former opponents, enable the populist autocratic-minded leader to compete and win elections while undermining the institutions and political processes that sustain democracies. Research limitations/implications limited case study Practical implications This study adds to the field of study concerning authoritarian-minded populist leadership. Social implications This study focuses more directly on those individuals and institutions that provide support and allegiance to rising populist leaders who seek to undermine democratic norms and institutions. Originality/value Linking social science research on authoritarianism from post-WWII researchers to contemporary case studies