The US (at least the Republican party & some supporters) possesses other authoritarian traits as well, such as using excessive force to quell protests, pushing a narrative which alienates outgroups (Mexicans, Muslims...), or widespread surveillance.
Obviously it's not as bad as China or Russia, but it's not exactly a bastion of hands-off governance either.
Indeed, it's a matter of degree. I wouldn't call it autoritarian relative to the world, but it's lagging behind Western Europe and a bunch of other countries.
Obviously it's not as bad as China or Russia, but it's not exactly a bastion of hands-off governance either.