> how many countries and states that allow referendums have fallen down the slippery slope from there to "full democracy"

A joke, right?

I can’t speak for all states, but the last midterms in FL alone had 10 referendums, some of which changed the state forever in big ways, constitutional amendments, etc. (e.g., allowing felons to vote, permanent tax changes, etc.).

If you think that doesn’t represent a low enough bottom of that slippery slope, you’re out of your fucking mind.