When democratic norms break down, the most vulnerable communities suffer first, and most deeply. In the United States, recent political shifts have exposed just how fragile civil rights can become when democratic institutions are undermined. Nowhere is this erosion more visible than in the targeting of LGBTQ+ protections. Because the weakening of democracy and the assault on LGBTQ+ rights are deeply interconnected, it becomes far easier for those in power to roll back hard-won civil rights when democratic safeguards falter. 

LGBTQ+ individuals are among the first to be affected in such environments, where hostile political climates enable discriminatory policies to advance with minimal resistance. Donald Trump’s presidency, both his first term and his current administration,  provides a clear illustration of this dynamic, as his actions have consistently enabled anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment to gain traction across the country. As democratic institutions continue to fray, the battle for LGBTQ+ rights becomes more urgent and more difficult.

What Is Democratic Erosion, and Why Does It Matter?

Democratic Erosion refers to the gradual weakening of the institutions, norms, and legal frameworks that uphold a democratic society. This includes attacks on electoral integrity, judicial independence, freedom of the press, and the civil rights of citizens. While these changes may occur subtly, their cumulative effect can drastically shift the political climate, especially for marginalized groups.

Political scientists have long warned that autocrats rarely destroy democracies overnight; instead, they chip away at foundational principles while maintaining a facade of legality. This erosion creates an environment where discriminatory policies can thrive with minimal resistance.

Trump’s First Term: The Beginning of Regressive Policy

During Trump’s first presidency (2016–2020), LGBTQ+ rights faced a wave of rollbacks and rhetorical attacks. The administration banned transgender individuals from serving in the military, a reversal of an Obama-era policy. It also attempted to limit protections under Title IX, arguing that gender identity was not covered by existing anti-discrimination laws.

Religious liberty was often invoked to justify discriminatory practices. For example, under Trump’s Department of Justice, businesses were granted broader leeway to deny services to LGBTQ+ people on religious grounds, an action critically assessed by civil rights groups. Trump’s rhetoric further emboldened anti-LGBTQ+ sentiment across the country, helping to normalize exclusion under the guise of traditional values.

Trump’s Second Term: Escalating the Assault on LGBTQ+ Rights

Now, in his second term, Trump has continued and escalated these efforts. His administration has advanced policies to restrict access to gender-affirming healthcare, and his Justice Department has argued against extending civil rights protections to LGBTQ+ people in employment, housing, and education.

At the state level, conservative lawmakers have followed suit. More than 500 anti-LGBTQ+ bills have been introduced across the country, many targeting transgender youth. These include bans on gender-affirming care, restrictions on transgender students’ participation in sports, and censorship of LGBTQ+ topics in school curricula. While these measures are often framed as protecting children or preserving family values, they are better understood as efforts to institutionalize discrimination, and they are increasingly legitimized by federal leadership.

The Link Between Democratic Backsliding and Civil Rights

Why is this happening? Because the erosion of democratic norms makes it easier for those in power to target vulnerable communities. When checks and balances weaken, and when civil society is discouraged or discredited, policies that once would have sparked national outcry are passed with little opposition.

Trump’s presidency, both past and present, illustrates this dynamic vividly. His administration’s disregard for democratic conventions enables discriminatory actions to flourish under the radar. The targeting of LGBTQ+ individuals is not incidental, it is symptomatic of a broader decline in democratic accountability and civic protection.

What’s at Stake—and What Comes Next?

This intersection between political authoritarianism and social regression should alarm anyone who cares about civil liberties. LGBTQ+ people are the proverbial canary in the coal mine, early indicators of a political system that is becoming less just and inclusive.

Still, there are reasons to remain hopeful. LGBTQ+ advocacy groups, civil rights organizations, and engaged citizens continue to resist these measures. Legal battles are underway, grassroots campaigns are gaining momentum, and a new generation of voters is increasingly supportive of LGBTQ+ equality. But these efforts must also include a commitment to rebuilding and defending democratic institutions themselves.

Resources to Learn More

To better understand these dynamics and support ongoing resistance, explore the following:

• Democratic Backsliding in the U.S.
• Mapping Anti-LGBTQ+ Legislation
• LGBTQ+ Rights Under Trump: A Timeline