Russia’s experience shows why Americans must act now to safeguard democratic institutions.

With Abbas Milani and Larry Diamond | America, born with the aspiration of becoming “a city on a hill,” faces the serious danger of becoming a fortress, deluded in the belief that walls and airport detention rooms will offer security and prosperity. Through hard work, entrepreneurship, and complete allegiance to their adopted country, generations of immigrants helped create the most prosperous, powerful, and open society in human history.

So far the president-elect has had little to say on the subject of democracy. He should use his inaugural address to clarify his stance.

The incoming Trump administration must articulate a new doctrine for response.