Fortunately, from their research, Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt were able to formulate key indicators that can be used as measuring tools. The assumption is, if a figure carries these key indicators, they have the potential to act and behave anti-democratically, to corrupt democracy, or even kill democracy, even though the power they hold is obtained through democratic means. The message is clear: such a figure is unfit to be chosen as a leader.
Four Key Indicators
Steven Levitsky and Daniel Ziblatt have provided four indicators to examine the degree of anti-democratic behavior in an individual, particularly in this context, an individual vying for power through democratic means, such as an election. I have adopted these four key indicators as a guide to making choices in the 2024 Election.
The first indicator relates to issues of intolerance and its escalation. The escalation of intolerance could manifest as hatred, hostility, radicalism, extremism, and even terrorism.
Indeed, there may genuinely be intolerant figures in the race. However, this indicator is not exclusively applied to them, but also to their advocates or supporters. Even if a person is tolerant individually, if they are backed by intolerant groups, they can be classified as part of the anti-democratic force. Those who allow or never reject the strengthening of intolerant groups are also included in this category. The politicization of religion and identity fall under this indicator.