I asked myself, why do people support authoritarian leaders and dictators ?

Here is what I found.

It often stems from a mix of genuine appeal (especially early on), propaganda, fear, desperation, ideology, nationalism, and coercion.

Many supporters see tangible short-term benefits or believe the leader embodies national salvation, while dissent is suppressed.

I am not going to make an analogy. You can do that for yourself. (I hope)