(CNN)Just days ago, hundreds of the most prominent political scientists in the United States -most of whom usually stay far removed from the partisan fray of electoral politics -- did something extraordinary: They penned a public letter to express their deep concern about Donald Trump. "A Trump Presidency," they wrote, "would pose a grave threat to American democracy and to other democratic governments around the world."
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It is also up to the old guard of the Republican Party. For all of Trump's power, his ability to do damage to the republic could be held in check by the fact that many elected legislators from his own party retain a deep commitment to the Constitution, and have been deeply dismayed by many of his statements. If Trump gives in to his worst instincts, the fate of the republic may
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hinge on their ability to summon the courage they have so far lacked. The media are crucial, too. During the campaign, they have oscillated between calling out Trump's lies and treating him as just another mainstream candidate. If Trump starts to violate the Constitution or to intimidate his critics, journalists of all political persuasions have to speak out against him with one voice -- lest attacks on free speech be normalized. Yes, they may come under pressure from the administration. And yes, they will lose many readers and viewers. But for journalists to normalize a President who tries to muzzle the press is to dig their own graves.
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