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A number of U.S. presidents have faced accusations of authoritarianism or dictatorial behavior, either by consolidating power, expanding executive authority during a crisis, or attacking democratic institutions. These accusations often come from political opponents or critics and have a wide range of motivations.
Historical presidents
Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR): Critics accused FDR of leading the country toward a dictatorship during the Great Depression and World War II. They cited his unprecedented use of power, including shutting down banks, creating a command economy, and running for a third and fourth term. He also faced criticism for attempting to increase the size of the Supreme Court, an event known as the "court-packing incident".
Woodrow Wilson: During World War I, Wilson was granted sweeping new powers by Congress, including the ability to control prices and take over factories. Legislation passed under his administration also enabled the prosecution of disloyal statements, a move critics deemed authoritarian.
Abraham Lincoln: President Lincoln's suspension of the writ of habeas corpus during the Civil War led to accusations that he abused his power.
Andrew Jackson: He faced criticism for his expansive use of presidential power, particularly during the Nullification Crisis, in which he threatened to use military force against South Carolina.