Covid is surging in Europe. Experts say it’s a warning for the U.S.

The country where I was born and the one where I currently live both share this story: National restrictions were introduced, then vaccines, and this autumn the restrictions were lifted. Some regional/local restrictions apply in the worst-hit areas in one case, more in the other.

Viewed as a power grab they don't seem too impressive. But maybe you have some better examples. Or maybe you don't and it's "almost as if" instead of actually.