Removing Donald Trump's Star: A Necessary Step Toward Upholding Democratic Values

The Hollywood Walk of Fame has long stood as a symbol of artistic achievement and cultural contribution. However, the presence of Donald Trump's star on this esteemed sidewalk has become a subject of contention. Given his recent actions and rhetoric, it is imperative that we reconsider the appropriateness of honoring him in this manner.

Donald Trump's recent actions have exhibited clear authoritarian tendencies. He has increasingly relied on the U.S. military, particularly the National Guard, to address what he perceives as internal threats, such as violent crime and left-wing groups. By labeling Democratic-run cities as "war zones" and threatening to invoke the Insurrection Act, Trump has blurred the lines between military and civil authority, raising concerns about the politicization of the military and potential overreach of executive power¹.

Furthermore, Trump's rhetoric has often been divisive and inflammatory. He has referred to his political opponents as "vermin," a term reminiscent of language used by authoritarian leaders to dehumanize and delegitimize dissent². Such language undermines the principles of democratic discourse and fosters an environment of hostility and division.

Trump's behavior has also been characterized by a narcissistic disregard for established democratic norms. Reports indicate that he has sought to consolidate power by installing loyalists throughout the government, purging civil servants deemed insufficiently loyal, and undermining judicial independence³. These actions mirror tactics employed by authoritarian regimes to centralize control and suppress opposition.

Additionally, Trump's administration has been marked by efforts to stifle dissent and limit civil liberties. From targeting political opponents to curbing media freedoms, these actions reflect a broader pattern of undermining the institutions that safeguard democracy.

There is also significant public pressure to remove Trump’s star. Activists have launched petitions that have gained thousands of signatures, reflecting widespread concern over his actions. Removing the star is seen as a symbolic gesture affirming that public honors should reflect integrity and respect for democratic principles. Supporters argue that maintaining the star could implicitly condone behavior that undermines democracy, civility, and public trust⁵.

In light of Donald Trump's authoritarian actions, divisive rhetoric, and narcissistic disregard for democratic norms, it is both appropriate and necessary to remove his star from the Hollywood Walk of Fame. This symbolic gesture would reaffirm our commitment to the values of democracy, accountability, and respect for all individuals. While the Walk of Fame has historically honored artistic achievements, it should not serve as a platform for those who undermine the very principles upon which our society is built.

Footnotes:

¹ "Trump deploys tactics and language of war against perceived domestic threats," Washington Post, October 11, 2025. 
² "Trump calls political enemies 'vermin,' echoing dictators," Washington Post, November 13, 2023. 
³ "Trump's moves to consolidate power, punish enemies draw comparisons to places where democracy faded," Washington Post, September 28, 2025. 
⁴ "Most Americans describe Donald Trump as 'dangerous dictator,'" Newsweek, May 1, 2025. 
⁵ Petition and public petitions regarding Trump's Walk of Fame star, Los Angeles Times, 2025. 

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