In a bold and unprecedented call to action, conservative New York Times columnist David Brooks has urged Americans to engage in a "comprehensive national civic uprising" against President Donald Trump. In a scathing op-ed published on April 18, 2025, Brooks argues that Trumpism poses a significant threat to the foundational pillars of modern civilization, including legal systems, scientific institutions, and democratic norms.
Brooks describes Trumpism as primarily driven by the "acquisition of power for its own sake" and as a "multifront assault to make the earth a playground for ruthless men." He asserts that this movement not only undermines the rule of law but also seeks to dismantle the institutions that promote peace, justice, and public understanding.
"It’s time for Americans in universities, law, business, nonprofits, and the scientific community, and civil servants and beyond to form one coordinated mass movement," Brooks writes. He emphasizes that the only way to confront Trump’s power is through a united front that possesses rival power.
Brooks notes that the various sectors targeted by Trump have responded in a fragmented manner. For instance, while some law firms have banded together to resist Trump’s executive orders, many others have sought to make deals with the administration. This tactic, he argues, is ineffective and allows Trump to "divide and conquer."
He cites the example of Harvard University drawing a line against Trump while Columbia University opted to negotiate, illustrating the disjointed response to the president’s assaults on higher education and civil society. Brooks highlights that only a small fraction of the 4,000 degree-granting institutions in the U.S. have taken a stand against Trump, with the "Big Ten" colleges uniting to defend academic freedom being a notable but limited effort.
Brooks calls for a multi-pronged response to Trumpism, which he believes should include mass rallies, strikes, lawsuits, and other forms of nonviolent resistance. He references the book "Why Civil Resistance Works" by Erica Chenoweth and Maria J. Stephan, which explores successful nonviolent uprisings throughout history. These movements have shown that coordinated efforts can effectively challenge authoritarian regimes.
He argues that the civic uprising should not only focus on immediate actions to stop Trump but also aim for a long-term vision of a fairer society. This vision must address the societal issues that contributed to Trump’s rise, including economic disparities and perceived injustices within the political system.
In defending the role of universities, Brooks acknowledges their past criticisms for perceived progressivism but argues that they play a crucial role in cultivating critical thinkers. He reflects on his experience in academia, stating, "A kid comes on campus as a freshman, inquisitive but unformed. By senior year, there is something impressive about her. She is awakened, cultured, a critical thinker. The universities have performed their magic once again." This underscores his belief that educational institutions are vital to fostering a generation that can challenge authoritarianism.
Brooks concludes with a powerful reminder of the stakes involved: "We have nothing to lose but our chains." He acknowledges that while he does not typically see himself as a movement leader, he believes that this uprising is essential for the future of American democracy.
Brooks' call to action echoes sentiments shared by other conservatives who have begun to reevaluate their positions in light of Trump’s presidency. For instance, Weekly Standard founder Bill Kristol, who previously raised funds against Trump in 2023, has recently drawn parallels between Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents and authoritarian regimes, questioning the moral implications of current immigration policies.
As the political landscape continues to shift, Brooks’ op-ed serves as a rallying cry for those who feel disillusioned by the current state of affairs. His assertion that a coordinated civic uprising is necessary not only reflects a growing frustration with Trump’s administration but also highlights the urgent need for a collective response to protect the institutions that underpin American democracy.
In a time when political divisions seem insurmountable, Brooks’ vision for a united front against Trumpism may resonate with those across the political spectrum who value the principles of democracy, justice, and civil discourse.
