How will we know when America has crossed the line into authoritarianism? The experts on the matter recently proposed one thing to watch closely: the cost of opposing the government. What has happened in Los Angeles these last few days shows clearly how the Trump administration is intent on making opposition more costly. And it is, as David Frum argues, «a warning of what to expect when Trump’s hold on power is threatened.»

From Weekly Filet #532, in June 2025.