Theoretical Democracy vs Practical Authoritarianism

We are living in a very interesting time in the United States and the West. Like many others I have watched what has occurred over the last couple of years and find myself at a loss. I find the turmoil perplexing. I am referring to the followers of Trump and the rise of authoritarianism here in the US and the West. As I think of what has happened here in the US, the rise of authoritarianism, I come to one conclusion. Those that follow Trump and desire authoritarianism, are doing so for emotional reasons. I believe they feel part of something and are under the impression they have power under Trump. In other words, there seems to be no practical motivation driving them to authoritarianism. My question is what happens when the desire for authoritarianism becomes a practical choice?

Note, the following statements are from my perspective and mine alone. I am a Democrat. I believe in democracy. However, I must state that democracy today in the United States feels more theoretical than practical. Every election, I vote for the candidates that support what I believe, addressing healthcare costs, stagnant wages, inflation, student loan debt, climate change and rising economic inequality and loss of opportunity. Many times, my candidates win because these positions are very popular with the majority of the citizens of this great democracy. And yet…nothing changes…