Prime Minister of Hungary, Viktor Orban’s, significant shift in rhetoric in recent days suggests a distancing from democratic restraints, particularly following the return of US President Donald Trump to the White House in January. This period has witnessed Orban criticizing opponents with unprecedented harshness and issuing severe threats. His latest State of the Nation address, traditionally filled with provocative remarks, took a darker tone this year, including suggestions of banning the LGBTQ+ parade in Budapest and amending the constitution to limit gender identities strictly to male or female. These proposals echoed his controversial 2014 address advocating for an “illiberal state.” Hungarian media have expressed concerns over this turn, with some calling it an “unprecedented radicalization.” Orban’s government is considering legal and constitutional reforms to enable further actions against critics, including potential expulsion or entry bans, in a move reminiscent of the US’s Magnitsky Act. The government also intensifies efforts to combat suspected foreign interference, with the Sovereignty Protection Office established to investigate such violations. Motivations behind these moves may include a recent documentary by investigative journalists, “The Dynasty,” highlighting corruption and influence within Orban’s inner circle and his family, which sparked widespread concern and opposition. Tensions are escalating, with a new political party, Respect and Freedom (TMSZA), gaining significant traction amidst growing public discontent with Orban’s governance.