The Drift Watch

Take Action

Authoritarian drift thrives on silence, confusion, and apathy. But you don’t have to sit back and watch. These are practical steps you can take to push back, protect democratic norms, and empower others to do the same.

1. Register — and Help Others Register

Voting is the cornerstone of democracy. Make sure you and those around you are prepared.

  • Check your voter registration status in your state
  • Help friends and family register or update their info
  • Volunteer with nonpartisan registration groups

2. Contact Your Representatives

Public pressure works. Elected officials need to hear from constituents who care about democratic norms.

  • Call or write to your state and federal lawmakers
  • Oppose abuses of power, suppression, or disinformation
  • Ask for accountability on issues raised in this project

3. Support Independent Journalism

A free press holds power to account. Help sustain it.

  • Subscribe to outlets like Associated Press, NPR, or The Guardian
  • Share credible, fact-checked articles — not rumors or hot takes
  • Support platforms committed to transparency and truth

4. Stay Educated — and Help Others See the Pattern

Understanding the warning signs is the first step to resisting them.

  • Read books like How Democracies Die and On Tyranny
  • Explore real-world examples in the History section
  • Keep learning — and share what you discover

5. Spread the Word

Awareness is contagious. Talk about what’s happening — and why it matters.

  • Share this site with friends, family, and your community
  • Host a discussion night on the topics raised here
  • Use your voice, your platform, or your skills to advocate
  • Follow us on social media

Democracy isn’t a given.

It’s a fight — and it’s worth fighting for.