Such comparisons, however, also bring to mind another lesson of history: never to underestimate the strongman’s tenacity and his will to do whatever it takes to stay in power. Current and former CIA analysts and officers, trained to spot signs of democratic disintegration, cautioned that polarization and use of force against protesters have often heralded an authoritarian crackdown. “This is what happens in countries before a collapse,” said former analyst Gail Helt. “I know this playbook,” warned former CIA undercover officer Rep. Abigail Spanberger (D-VA) of the escalating tensions in
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