The Origins of Elected Strongmen

In "The Origins of Elected Strongmen," the authors explore the rise of personalist political parties that prioritize the ambitions of individual leaders over specific policy agendas. Utilizing original data from 1991 to 2020, the book reveals how these parties contribute to the erosion of democracy by enabling leaders to expand their power unchecked. This shift undermines democratic institutions, fosters political polarization, and diminishes public commitment to democratic norms, ultimately raising the risk of democratic failure.