Fact-Check Summary
Victor Davis Hanson’s statement claims there was a “three-year project to overturn the will of the American people” that makes Watergate “look like small potatoes.” This assertion reflects Hanson’s broader criticism of Democratic opposition to Donald Trump’s 2024 election win. Fact-checking reveals that while Democrats vocally and legally challenged Trump’s return to office, there is no substantiated evidence of a coordinated, illegal conspiracy comparable to Watergate. Democratic resistance took the form of legal actions, public rhetoric, and political challenge, all of which are regular features of the American democratic process and did not rise to the level of criminality seen in the Watergate scandal. Hanson’s phrasing is supported by his prior commentaries but is ultimately hyperbolic and not corroborated by concrete proof of illicit activity.
Belief Alignment Analysis
Hanson’s statement conflicts with democratic values centering on truthfulness, fairness, and inclusivity. By labeling legitimate legal and political opposition as an attempt to “overturn the will of the American people,” the claim could foster unnecessary division and distrust in lawful institutions. Comparing routine democratic processes to the criminality of Watergate is particularly damaging, as it may undermine public confidence in political norms and the integrity of electoral outcomes. While a healthy democracy should allow for strong debate and criticism, Hanson’s framing risks inflaming polarization and discouraging constructive civic participation among all Americans.
Opinion
Hanson’s perspective is emblematic of current partisan rhetoric that prioritizes dramatic language over sober assessment. While it is valid to critique the tactics and motivations of political opponents, equating political opposition and legal challenge to an anti-democratic plot is misleading and irresponsible. Political resistance—whether from the left or right—must remain within legal channels, as was the case following the 2024 election. As advocates for fairness and a democracy that serves all, we must call out exaggeration and demand accountability from all sides, refusing to let hyperbole sabotage public understanding or the spirit of inclusion in America.
TLDR
Victor Davis Hanson’s statement that there was a three-year plot to “overturn the will of the American people”—worse than Watergate—lacks credible evidence. His language is hyperbolic and mischaracterizes valid political and legal opposition as an illegitimate conspiracy, undermining democratic norms and public trust.
Claim: Victor Davis Hanson asserted that there was a three-year project to overturn the will of the American people after Trump’s 2024 victory, describing it as more egregious than the Watergate scandal.
Fact: There is no public or substantiated evidence of a coordinated, illegal effort equivalent to Watergate following the 2024 election. Democratic opposition took place through legal challenges and public advocacy, consistent with the norms of American democracy.
Opinion: Hanson’s hyperbolic comparison undermines trust in democratic institutions by equating lawful, if contentious, political resistance with criminal conspiracy. Upholding democracy requires both robust critique and adherence to facts, not sensationalized narratives.