In many democracies that flirt with autocracy, there is a moment of teetering on the edge. Some, like Hungary and Turkey, slide toward authoritarianism, but some have seemingly pulled themselves back from the brink — like Poland. The United States may be at this inflection point right now. A recent spate of stories has asked, at what point do we call President Trump’s defiance of the courts a constitutional crisis? That’s left me wondering: If we are in a constitutional crisis, what should those of us who care about democracy and the rule of law do? What did people in those other countries do? I asked the Times columnist and legal expert David French to help me find out. He hosted a conversation with Aleksandra Gliszczyńska-Grabias, a law professor who fought against Poland’s right-wing populist Law and Justice Party during its rule. She movingly describes the mobilization of judges, who left their courtrooms to lead mass teach-ins throughout the country. Notably, the judges did not tell Polish citizens whom to vote for — they simply explained why democracy and the rule of law are important for people’s everyday lives. And in 2023, the pro-democracy movement won. Poles rejected the populist authoritarian-leaning party and voted in a center-right coalition. We could all use a little optimism right now. I hope you’ll listen to or read this inspiring and instructive conversation. Here’s what we’re focusing on today:Games Here are today’s Mini Crossword, Wordle and Spelling Bee. If you’re in the mood to play more, find all our games here. Forward this newsletter to friends to share ideas and perspectives that will help inform their lives. They can sign up here. Do you have feedback? Email us at opiniontoday@nytimes.com. If you have questions about your Times account, delivery problems or other issues, visit our Help Page or contact The Times.
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