The Dark Triad in Global Politics: Narcissism, Psychopathy, and Machiavellianism in Leadership

A cross-partisan exploration of how narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism in political leaders are driving global division and eroding democratic trust.

Across the world, politics has become increasingly shaped by personality over policy. As media-savvy, emotionally charged leadership dominates the global stage, psychology researchers have identified a common pattern among certain political figures: the Dark Triad. Comprising narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism, these traits may be behind rising political polarization, distrust in institutions, and growing authoritarianism in both democratic and autocratic societies.

A study from the University of Amsterdam highlights a disturbing trend: politicians who exhibit high levels of these traits often deepen social divisions by inciting hostility toward their opponents. These leaders are frequently charismatic and persuasive—but beneath the surface, their tactics are emotionally manipulative and often destructive.

Understanding the Dark Triad

The Dark Triad consists of three distinct yet overlapping personality traits:

• Narcissism: A grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy.

• Psychopathy: Emotional coldness, impulsivity, fearlessness, and a disregard for morality or others' well-being.

• Machiavellianism: Strategic manipulation, deceitfulness, and a focus on personal power and control.

While not all politicians display these traits, the presence of one or more of them—especially in high degrees—can significantly influence their leadership style, decision-making, and relationships with both allies and adversaries.

Real-World Political Examples Across the Spectrum

To maintain objectivity and avoid partisan bias, we present examples from major U.S. political parties—highlighting behavior patterns rather than personal attacks. This educational lens helps illustrate how the Dark Triad can influence leaders of all political stripes.

1. Donald Trump (Republican Party) – Narcissism & Polarization

Former President Donald Trump’s behavior aligns with several core features of narcissism and Machiavellianism. Widely recognized for his self-promotional style, low tolerance for criticism, and tendency to portray political opponents as adversaries, Trump’s style fosters intense loyalty among supporters while deepening political rifts. His use of social media to frame himself as a victim and savior figure—alongside his rejection of traditional democratic norms, is consistent with research on narcissistic leadership. While admired by many for his boldness and outsider stance, psychological experts often cite his leadership style as an example of emotionally manipulative political communication.

2. Andrew Cuomo (Democratic Party) – Machiavellianism & Control

Former New York Governor Andrew Cuomo has also been examined through the lens of Dark Triad traits, particularly in light of his aggressive leadership style and allegations of coercive behavior. Though initially praised for his COVID-19 pandemic response, internal investigations later revealed attempts to conceal nursing home death data and reported patterns of intimidation within his administration. Critics have described Cuomo’s strategic use of charm in public appearances, contrasted with his behind-the-scenes manipulation and control, as signs of Machiavellianism. His fall from grace underscores how charisma and control coexist in toxic political leadership.

While distinct in ideology and leadership context, these examples reflect similar psychological patterns prioritizing personal power and image over empathy and collaboration.

Global Reflections: It's Not Just a U.S. Phenomenon

The Dark Triad isn't limited to the U.S. Authoritarian-leaning leaders around the world often exhibit a combination of these traits:

• Vladimir Putin (Russia) demonstrates high Machiavellianism and psychopathy, using disinformation, coercion, and aggression to maintain control and extend geopolitical influence.

• Jair Bolsonaro (Brazil) has displayed psychopathic tendencies in his dismissive rhetoric about the COVID-19 pandemic and environmental protections, prioritizing personal ideology over humanitarian concerns.

• Silvio Berlusconi (Italy), a media tycoon turned political leader, was known for his flamboyance, scandals, and self-promotion, often cited as a case of political narcissism.

These and many other political figures at all levels of government leveraged public platforms, nationalism, and polarization to consolidate power, often at the expense of transparency, accountability, and unity.

How the Dark Triad Divides Societies

Leaders with Dark Triad traits use emotionally charged language, personal branding, and division-based narratives to reinforce loyalty. Key tactics include:

• Demonizing opponents to frame dissent as dangerous or unpatriotic.

• Exploiting crises to justify increased control or deflection.

• Manipulating media and facts to sustain an idealized image.

• Encouraging cults of personality, where the leader becomes inseparable from the state or movement.

These behaviors often result in decreased public trust, normalized aggression in discourse, and a weakened democratic culture.

What Can Be Done?

While psychological screening is unlikely to become part of the electoral process anytime soon, public education is essential. Voters need unbiased education to recognize and filter emotionally manipulative rhetoric, question authoritarian behavior, and critically evaluate political personas, not just by media outlets that appear to display their own bias leaning one way or the other.

Journalists and educators can play a vital role in identifying patterns of abuse, manipulation, and personality-driven governance, provided they don't embody these same traits. More than ever, civic resilience depends on media literacy, emotional intelligence, and psychological insight.

The Dark Triad traits—narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism—are not confined to any one political party or ideology. They are psychological patterns that can emerge in any leader, regardless of affiliation. By understanding how these traits function and recognizing them in action, we can better safeguard our democracies, relationships, and communities.

The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional advice. We are not licensed clinicians, mental health professionals, lawyers, or legal advisors. For any concerns regarding mental health or personal situations, please seek advice from a qualified professional. For more details, please read our full disclaimer.