What Happens When a Megalomaniac Begins to Fail
The New Yorker
February 14, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat discusses how autocratic leaders like Donald Trump exhibit behaviors tied to "autocratic backfire," where declining popularity leads to increased paranoia and entrenchment in extreme positions. Drawing on her expertise in strongmen leaders from Mussolini to modern-day authoritarians, Ben-Ghiat explains that as these figures lose public support, they often overestimate their abilities and become more reliant on echo chambers of loyalists who reinforce their beliefs. This dynamic can lead to unpredictable and dangerous outcomes, as leaders double down on policies or rhetoric that further alienate the population.
Ben-Ghiat highlights how autocratic backfire is rooted in historical patterns of regime evolution. As autocrats face diminishing legitimacy, they tend to weaponize propaganda and manipulate information to maintain control. Trump's recent "explosion of the ego," as noted by contributors on *The Washington Roundtable*, exemplifies this phenomenon, where leaders increasingly believe their own rhetoric and reject contradictory evidence. This creates a cycle of isolation and radicalization, making it harder for them to adapt or compromise.
Understanding autocratic backfire is crucial for grasping the broader cultural and political implications of leadership failure. It not only explains Trump's behavior but also offers insights into how other authoritarian figures might respond to decline. By examining historical precedents like Mussolini, Ben-Ghiat underscores the universal tendencies of power-hungry leaders who, when challenged, often double down rather than retreat. This pattern raises important questions about the resilience of democratic institutions and the role of media in shaping perceptions during times of political instability.
For readers interested in culture and politics, this discussion provides a lens for analyzing how power dynamics influence public opinion and governance. The interplay between leadership hubris and societal pushback highlights the tension between authoritarianism and democracy, offering valuable context for understanding contemporary political challenges. Ben-Ghiat's analysis bridges history and current events, making it essential reading for anyone seeking to unpack the complexities of modern autocracy.
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Originally published on The New Yorker on 2/14/2026