Jason Stanley: U.S. Headed to a One-Party State Unless “Americans Wake Up” | Amanpour and Company

Jason Stanley, an expert on authoritarianism, has been an adviser to the January 6 committee. The author of "How Fascism Works" speaks with Hari Sreenivasan about the hearings and the state of democracy in America.
Originally aired on June 29, 2022
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Amanpour and Company features wide-ranging, in-depth conversations with global thought leaders and cultural influencers on the issues and trends impacting the world each day, from politics, business and technology to arts, science and sports. Christiane Amanpour leads the conversation on global and domestic news from London with contributions by prominent journalists Walter Isaacson, Michel Martin, Alicia Menendez and Hari Sreenivasan from the Tisch WNET Studios at Lincoln Center in New York City.
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[@bertnijhof5413]

I'm Dutch and was born one week after the German Army in my country capitulated to the 1st Canadian Army. I lived 10km from the German boundary and did see a lot of German TV, including their excellent documentary about the Nazis between 1918 and 1945. The cause for the election victory of Hitler's NSDAP was: - the support from the German Industrialists (oligarchs) of Krupp; IG Farben and many others; - an impoverished and partly desperate population; - a charismatic ruthless leader receiving a cult like adoration; - the believe in superiority of the Germanic White Race; - the SA Militia (SturmAbteilung) on the streets beating up socialists and members of "inferior" races, e.g The Jews, Gypsies or Slavs (Poles; Russians; etc). I see the same situation in the USA, only the names changed and the "inferior" races are adapted to the US location. Remember the first coup of Adolf Hitler failed, but his second after the Reichstag Fire has been successful, because Hitler and the NSDAP were better prepared. Führer Trump and the Republican Nazi Party are currently preparing for their second coup. The US Justice Department seems deep asleep, if true the USA is doomed.

[@ld4974]

"When Fascism comes to America, it will be wrapped in the flag and carrying a cross" - Sinclair Lewis

[@antifazisbonifaz6964]

As anywhere anytime. Fascist always disguise themselves as "patriots"

[@kevincrady2831]

Also, wearing really stupid-looking hats and flag-print clothes.

[@WAEVOICE]

Didn't mention the sickle and hammer making the latter.

[@antifazisbonifaz6964]

@@WAEVOICE That would be another bird. Authoritarian also but another game. Woth different outcomes

[@massimookissed1023]

When fascism comes to America, it will be dry-humping the flag and holding a Bible upside-down.

[@kristannestone1748]

Authoritarianism is overpowering. In my family of origin there is no room for ANY dissenting viewpoint, and NO room for women (except literally pregnant and in the home supporting her superior husband), nor anyone of color, no LGBTQ, no one allowed but Christians...so much so that I chose to leave the family. This is the "America" I hoped would never arrive. But it is indeed here, and it is hostile.

[@Angel-tw3ko]

If they hate people then they are not Christians. They don't know Jesus and Jesus won't know them.

[@melanieearly3450]

@@Angel-tw3ko Yep but we have an overwhelming amount of hate spewing fake Trumper Christian evangelicals in our country right now.

[@mayainverse9429]

yea try going to san francisco if you don't support hardcore extreme leftisit positions you are also considered cannon fodder. difference is people in texas don't care what people in cali do. the opposite isn't true. people in california demand texas kneel and obey.

[@bobs182]

@@Angel-tw3ko Christianity started out as a movement of the unempowered which was co-opted by the powerful emperor Constantine forming the Roman Catholic Church. Christian Europe conquered/colonized the world in the name of Jesus.

[@australopithecusafarensis5386]

You should convert to Catholicism

[@randibgood]

This man speaks so much truth about our country. He scares the shit out of me everytime I hear him. Because he is so spot on.

[@_Napoletano_]

Hes a fucking hypocrite

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@joenewmeyer8358]

If you listen to this guy, you have to take stupid pills. He's socialist and not even a clue of what real democracy is.

[@symbol8246]

It's his job to scare you just like Hannity and other right wingers. If so one is telling you about the dangers of political polarization, then proceeds to focus almost entirely on one side with fear and violent talk then they are actually part of the problem.

[@robertsmith2956]

True, but he fails to recognize everything he is saying biden and democrats are DOING. Burn and loot, go ahead, attack state capitals BLESS you my violent minions. Say mean things to a school board, YOUR a TERRORIST!

[@grantsmythe8625]

"Unless Americans wake up"......then we're in trouble.

[@David-nu3dr]

There is only so much We The People can do when those with the power to stop these traitors DO NOTHING to stop it. We vote, we protest, we sign petitions. It’s up to those with the power to indict and convict that are moving too slow, so don’t blame the people. For instance, why was Bannon scheduled for JULY to appear in court? Meantime, he is on his podcast causing all kinds of trouble. Also, how about looking at 2016? Did he pull off what he couldn’t pull off in 2020 back in 2016? Ever think of that?

[@JohnnyCatFitz]

We already are

[@cmgweb6951]

Exactly. For all his bluster and bloviating at Bezos and other 'real' billionaires, Trump and they ALL know they could put up with each other if they just convince the populace 'they know what's best', once they take over full power. I think this Supreme Court will have all the pieces in place by the time 2024 rolls around to make this a lot easier for the next attempt. My personal feeling is the country was already taken over in a coup in 1963 and solidified in 1968. Everything we've seen since has just been the two authoritarian sides battling for control. WE lost control already.

[@vanadyan1674]

Yep, the US is fucked. If you have the means I would start making arrangements to get out before the curtain falls.

[@keropi193]

Seriously what do we do? We elected Biden and Harris and they are laying down and taking it. We need ranked choice voting now.

[@maddie9185]

I always knew that once Trump became president that this country was going to go down hill fast. Even my husband thought I was exaggerating in 2016 and now he agrees with me.

[@WAEVOICE]

The country went downhill mainly because it speculated corruption from only one aisle; what Trump really accomplished was shine a light on the whole spectrum.

[@billb5732]

14:15 "Senator Hawley and Senator Cruz ... should not be allowed to be political leaders".

[@angeliaparker-savage5401]

Exactly...no accountability and no consequences will lead to more of the same. Either no one is above the law, or everyone is.

[@wmap1]

This is like going down a road that you knew was a bad idea but there’s no place to turn around. And it’s getting worse and worse.

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@dianaclausen6924]

Perfect analogy.

[@shirleyjust3305]

@@dianaclausen6924 I am 80yrs and have come to the conclusion, I can't change what is, but 98% of the time I do not need to participate, I can still say NO.

[@kevinp7056]

Inaction is itself an action, and also comes with consequences Each passing day without arrests makes the authoritarians bolder

[@TheDoorspook11c]

That's the point, there are enough cases for a RICO indictment. Inaction is precisely the action.

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@gregoryallen0001]

🔮 correct my friend; non-violent civil disobedience is the only solution now

[@AndreasDelleske]

@@margaretalexander5223 Assuming there is a god acting in your favor is a big part of the problem: You let an imaginary force work for but there is no god. Living is DIY. The US is not founded on a religion like the Taliban. Those who put beliefs over science and facts only lose and lose and lose all through history.

[@poigmhahon]

agreed, one of the things that should bind a civil society is an acceptable reality or frame of reference for behavior and interaction. The extremist right wing have thrown the baby out with the bathwater.

[@nicoleryan85]

Trump frequently would get excited talking about how the citizens of North Korea are so whipped into their leader.. despite the injustices their leader does to them. THATS what Trump loves, he wants the loyalty, blind loyalty that would go to the grave serving him and manipulating the people to not believe what we see with our own eyes and not trust ourselves, only to trust him. Disgraceful

[@barrett7893]

Amen to that!! 💯

[@qjtvaddict]

USA is worse North Korea is under sanctions

[@joenewmeyer8358]

Besides destroying this country, what's the difference with Democrats? Take your blinders off and smarten up

[@nicoleryan85]

@norm simpson What is scary is that these people in their religion are the minority setting the rules claiming that they are the moral people

[@pjpredhomme7699]

​@norm simpson they do like abuse - but what they want -is blood - I promise you if it gets there - they will be lining up "libs" and there will be various forms of public trials - torture , executions . it is abundantly clear that is what they want more than anything and we are perilously close to that being the reality .

[@robinshankland3499]

I sincerely wish that people in the u.s were more educated, more sophisticated about world history...about political shifts happening in Eastern Europe and about the Brexit fallout. I wish people could actually SEE what happens when we not only allow but encourage violent rhetoric and us vs them politics... a one party state would be a nightmare for EVERYONE except for the people in power. There really would be killing, mass political incarceration, runaway inflation. The people who voted for trump, the under educated, the poor, would be the first to suffer. He caters to that group because they don't know what they're looking at. Stalin did it. Hitler did it. Mao did it. Pol pot did it. Some of us can recognize the posturing, we can see the future, we are called DEMOCRAT

[@Gina-fl9sk]

The under education of the masses was purposeful. The system was set up during the industrial age and never updated. They trained factory workers. That is how it still exists.

[@lesliecurran1704]

All these things are not taught in school. Perhaps that is by design. It is only by reading and people don't seem to read anymore. I love history in school and high school. It was something I didn't even pay attention to, but I read a lot and I've read so much history. I'm so interested in fascinated with it, but how many people read anything? Or anything of value? I think the fundamental problem is the educational system. It has been so dumbed down.

[@richardsimms251]

Wow There is sure a lot of truth in your words. I wish more people would read what you typed !!

[@erincoco612]

Unless you pay for or are lucky enough to live withing certain economic areas....the education will ALWAYS be less. That is very much intended.

[@Ryan-Fkrepublicnz]

it is the democratic party, but it is mainly catering to the corporate interests, that is what the average people are sick and tired of, getting really hot too...

[@moonstoneway2694]

I agree and hope the DOJ is not okay with our democracy being replaced with fascism. Thank you!

[@5rings16]

The democrats are headed for the political wilderness. That doesnt mean fascism!! Give me a break!

[@5rings16]

@Lugosi I know! November is coming!!

[@dsddala467]

The DOJ has assembled a Federal Grand Jury investigating this. Ali Alexander ratted the DOJ out recently for the Grand Jury. The DOJ is working on it. The Jan 6 Committee has stated the DOJ is getting all their evidence. Be patient. It takes a lot to convict a former president so the conviction cannot be over turned. Given Trump's nickname is Teflon Don, because he always gets away with his crimes. I want the buck to stop here. And if takes till next year, I am OK with that. But, it might be even better, if he is already the Republican nominee and then he gets arrested. It could screw them in the 2024 election. ; )

[@5rings16]

@@dsddala467 No one buys this silly show trial. This is firing up the gop base, no way the Dems would throw red meat to an already fired up gop base.

[@notreally2406]

The Dems are running the fascism train right now. That's gonna end

[@steelymcafeeliac1050]

Gerald Ford ushered this in a long time ago. The minute Nixon was not held accountable it became a one party system. Two corporate parties who only differ on social issues is not a two party system.

[@ey67]

True

[@chaserofthelight1737]

After the civil War 42 confederates were brought up on charges, Robert E Lee was one, Lincoln let some off. After Lincoln’s death, the southern Vice President who became President, let the rest off. There was one abolitionist hung, Lee was at his hanging.

[@erincaitlin1655]

Yeah, it's always the GQP that does lasting and ongoing damage!!

[@americandirt7834]

@@erincaitlin1655 Keep burying the content of Hunter Biden's laptop! "the Big Guy" is more corrupt than Nixon by a thousand fold.

[@markfitzpatrick7186]

“The United States is also a one-party state but, with typical American extravagance, they have two of them.” - Julius Nyerere

[@user-ic4ce8xb5v]

That's a brilliant quote

[@wilhouts6173]

“ The Rule of Law has not caught up with them…” Without accountability man’s ‘lowest nature’ is allowed to run wild. 🌞

[@Primitarian]

It would help if we had a Justice Department that believed in actually prosecuting high-level people.

[@8cupsCoffee]

Rich people don't go to jail here

[@stephanbrunker]

The funny thing is: If the Supreme Court is consistent in his rulings, nowadays by applying old english laws, the punishment for High Treason is quite severe: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hanged,_drawn_and_quartered , and the events of January 6th really stink of High Treason from the top down. And unlike England today, capital punishment is still applicable in the U.S. ...?

[@Primitarian]

@@stephanbrunker Yes, the US has capital punishment, but it also has the 8th Amendment to the Constitution, which prohibits "cruel and unusual punishment." Nevertheless, it would not surprise me if many of January 6 insurrectionists have opposed the 8th Amendment as something "liberal" and "weak." And why not? In their view, the law is always something to be imposed on someone else. And I gather from Justice Alito that the acid test for constitutionality is whether something is deeply rooted in tradition, going all the way back to the 13th century. And hanging, drawing and quartering is certainly that.

[@stephanbrunker]

@@Primitarian Exactly. It says "unusual". But it was the usual punishment for these kind of crimes for centuries, so it would be perfectly in line with the constitution as they see it now. You can justify anything if you go back far enough and label it as "tradition". But then, the "right to bear arms" then would just mean you can bear all the arms existing at that time, essentially muzzle-loaded muskets and pistols with paper cartridges and black powder. Oh, and sabers. I would really like to see a school shooting with that. As an outsider I see it as a giant joke, if it wouldn't be tragically real.

[@sandal_thong8631]

@@8cupsCoffee Affluenza.

[@kathya1321]

I love the point being made that it was only the threat of legal jeopardy that kept this insurrection from succeeding (vs people just doing what’s right) and the absolute need for consequences; or this will happen again.. and encourage another similar event. So ON TARGET. Hope the Justice Department is listening!!

[@markgibson4658]

Kathy A: the intent was never to do what's right. The intent was to overthrow our government, disenfranchise most of the public, establish a Fascist state, and begin all the atrocities and brutality against those who actually know what Freedom is. They are the worst kind of people this country has ever produced, and they are still spewing their lies and proclaiming them the truth. Arresting Ginni Thomas would be a good start to let them know that the Republic intends to defend itself.

[@TheDoorspook11c]

Merrick Garland is sleep right now, maybe he thinks he'll have passed away before they succeed.

[@deborahedelman2659]

Well said!!!

[@nhennessy6434]

Consequences won't make any difference. When Rethuglicans comlete the coup in 2024, everyone involved in 2020 will be pardoned and given The Congressional Medal of Freedom, like Jim Jordan was. January 6th in America was like the Beer Hall Putsch in Weimar Germany, a dress rehearesal to a full on Nazi takeover. It's coming and it's inevitable.

[@kevinoreilly6833]

Or, their was no successful insurrection because their was no planed insurrection. January 6th did happen, no doubt. But, was it an insurrection planed by republican seniors and the former president? No, this is a crazy conspiracy theory.

[@rabbitandcrow]

The fact that Jason Stanley has advised the Committee gives me that much more confidence in them.

[@KM-pm6qe]

Now he needs to advise the rest of Congress.

[@grimz8158]

he got no understanding of the ideology he claims he a expert at

[@KM-pm6qe]

@@grimz8158 you must be the new guy at the troll farm. I’m sorry this was the best job option available to you. I love Russians, but I hope our own country won’t follow you down the road to authoritarianism and dictatorship. I hope your people will break free of Putin and the oligarchy one day. Good luck to you, “Grimz.”

[@rebeccaharrishunt1181]

"Fear of punishment"???? The word missing in everything I see today (esp. in the GOP) is: HONOR. HONOR. To me, that is the root word of all that ails us as a country today. HONOR is M.I.A.

[@bobs182]

Don't worry, if the word honor becomes popular, the GOP will wrap themselves in the word.

[@robertsmith2956]

yep, just had to watch the fake committe hearing to see there is NO honor in democrats.

[@Max-rp2ft]

Jason Stanley is a very important voice in these dark times.

[@willardaustria]

Yeah, a voice who sees fascism everywhere. The hammer/nail aphorism applies here.

[@johndallara3257]

The gurgling's from toilet are more informative on this matter that this fool. His ideas would lead to the very thing he says he believes he is against. Much like every liberal when they set there mind to fixing something, what you get is utter destruction. Please just keep all your bad ideas to defunding police while opening the border to let in more gender affirming birthing persons to expand healthcare while worrying about the climate crisis.....you live in crazy...wake up. You make the tax and spend libs look bad, all 2 that are left.

[@9UaYXxB]

@@willardaustria As if, Willard... 'sees fascism everywhere'.... that's YOUR hyperbole, you're trying to smear him as extremist.... He's making the case that extremism is becoming normalized in America, there is mountains of evidence to support this. It's actually an easy case to make. As an academic, his job is to analyze, he's going to be called out by his peers and by the media if his assessments are over-reaching.

[@kusheran]

I'm tired of the structural racism in the "dark metaphor"... Does dark mean bad in your language? That is racist! Tired of the dark metaphor! Dark does not equal bad. Stop the racist language!

[@terrystevens3998]

@@willardaustria if you can’t see fascism in America right now it is because you are either part of the fascist ingroup and don’t want to see it, or you are in denial of reality and uninformed on what fascism is.

[@jaykay415]

Jason, I hear you about American democracy BUT...at this point, our congresspeople don't legislate according to the will of the people AT ALL. That famous study a few years back proved that what they accomplish matches the goals of their corporate sponsors only. So we have been on rough ground for a long time, and that explains why half of Americans are totally checked out of the political system. I fear that corporate oligarchy will become, or has become, too entrenched and powerful to ever allow democracy.

[@Buttercup697]

Citizens United must be overturned

[@terrystevens3998]

Vote progressive “far left” people in.. they are called far left but they have my grandmothers politics that are now labeled as “socialist” by the corporate dems and republicans.. we have to start picking the politicians that understand class struggle and are willing to put people before profits

[@MrFotow]

@@terrystevens3998 You don't have a far left in the U.S.A. your democrats are centre right at best at the moment and the GOP is basically neo fascist. The socialist party in The Netherlands is far left and even they have moved more centre than ever before.

[@MossyMozart]

@@terrystevens3998 - I would love to see progressivism come to our (USA) government, but I think that in this current era, it will not be possible. We must wrest any control from the radical right first, establish a centrist base, then move to progressivism. For example, If Senator Bernie Sanders had been the Democratic candidate in 2020, trump would be king today. [I respect Bernie for all the work he has done in his career, much of it crying in the wilderness, but the nation just wasn't ready for him. Likewise Representative Ocasio-Cortez. Instead of complaining so loudly about Speaker Nancy Pelosi, she should have been sitting at Pelosi's knee to learn as much about how politics works as possible.]

[@Gina-fl9sk]

I agree and it is with everything in our free enterprise system. It has happened with the food systems, the educational systems, and the churches. They took power to new heights as a means to become wealthy. Power and control the goal and humanity and the Earth be damned. Now we pay with a sick, ignorant, and lazy population and planet.

[@uniquelylily1166]

Prison definitely should be in the picture.

[@basinxrandomstuff7264]

At the very least

[@TheeDavidDee]

Please share Professor Stanley's videos and content. Now more than ever, Americans must become educated on fascism and how it's taking over our political system.

[@Gina-fl9sk]

I agree and also do google the press podium bit with Trump and Putin at that visit to the US. Someone in the press asked Trump about Putin claiming he did not interfere in the election with Hillary's email issue and if Trump believed him when he said he did not interfere. His reply was something about Putin being an 'honorable' man and though our intelligence said he did interfere Trump said he believed Putin. If you look at Putin when Trump says that he is looking down but you can see the smile on his face knowing he got away with his BS.

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@mwol5473]

Socialism/Communism is taking over

[@TheeDavidDee]

@@mwol5473 Would love to here how, because I literally see a Far-right Christofascist takeover of the Supreme Court

[@margaretjohnson6259]

right wingers REFUSE to be educated or informed. they persistently vote against their own best interests.

[@rhondah1587]

Now go tell the DOJ to take some significant action. Consequences are a must happen thing. We are running out of time.

[@erickborling1302]

Actually no one gets to "tell the DOJ to take action" but you're right the pace of justice is unacceptably slow. But should saving America from tyranny be relegated to the courts? It's horrible if that's the case.

[@diffened]

@Down with Corporate Amerika Oh come on, McDonalds is better than DOJ. Garland would rather go to Ukraine and be on tv. Remember, Obama nominated Garland because he was a nothing that he thought he could get through the senate, not because he is any great lawyer or would have been a great justice.

[@galenjoyce8452]

I just can't believe the January 6th committee isn't going to subpoena Ginny Thomas. Kind of defeats the purpose if they aren't going after such a huge conspirators.

[@KM-pm6qe]

@@erickborling1302 you can tell the President to make some changes at DOJ.

[@geezzzwdf]

I HAVE BEN YELLING THIS AT MY TV . THANK YOU MR.STANLEY

[@davehendricks4824]

Stop calling trump the president. He’s at most the EX president. Personally he’s a lot lower than that. I have more respect for bird droppings.

[@consciousthought9293]

Thank You!!!!!!!

[@jbirdapparel]

Yessir

[@catherinekasmer9905]

The whole GOP except for two people are standing by and allowing this.

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@maryanncarroll137]

SCOTUS was the 2nd & "Successful" Coup

[@deborahedelman2659]

So true!

[@nycatlady2314]

Don’t forget to credit McConnell for that

[@cleo3254]

by the time the professor notices these things. .the poor have been living this nightmare for decades. .but thanks for noticing our pain

[@gwills9337]

Well said

[@cleo3254]

@Football-Pundit no kidding😂

[@cleo3254]

@@gwills9337 thank you for your response ✌

[@Gina-fl9sk]

This interview was exceptional and provided valuable information and stimulation for understanding what we are up against and how to think more intelligently about what is happening to our beloved country. It is so sad that we may not get enough people interested and informed until it is too late. It all goes back to our educational system and the lack of proper information in our public schools for the masses. They are still educated to be factory workers which does not provide much to foster critical thinking skills.

[@girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288]

Absolutely agree!! It's like you read my mind. Our public school system needs a much more complete USA history curriculum, plus units on civics, propaganda and demagogues. However, school boards are debating book banning. But it's not time for doom and gloom. Perhaps it is time for "each one teach one" to get the information to the population at the grassroots level. Be well, stay strong!

[@dday9433]

Be responsible for your own small circle of influence. Have civil debates, teach, and encourage voting. It helps me to have patience with others when I realize that much of their decisions are based on fear. If you can be respectful of their life experiences and perceptions (difficult at times, I know), and validate at least portions of their emotions and thoughts, you can sometimes lower their defenses. Good luck.

[@Gina-fl9sk]

@@girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288 Thank you. The gentle peeps need to get tough and speak up. We tend to be live and let live but there is a point when it is our lives and livelihood that is being trampled. There is an intelligent way to take control. That is to be out focus. Take notes from the Jan 6 investigations! That's how you do it. With brain not brawn.

[@girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288]

@@Gina-fl9sk Absolutely true, it is about brains. It's so hard right now because some people, understandably, are feeling so frustrated and angry, and then there is the anxiety epidemic from the worst days of the pandemic still hanging over us. Lots of planning, lots of positive action needed right now. And lots of reading of all the books someone doesn't want you to have!! This might sound silly, but I have always loved black and white movies. Those movies remind me that we had ancestors who survived both the Great Depression and World War Two. We will get through this, but it might require that level of toughness and determination. And some Eleanor Powell tapping!!! And some victory gardens! 🌻🌱💙

[@Gina-fl9sk]

@@girlfromthebronxbywayofelb7288 yes that's true. But I had a boss once who survived a terrible childhood illness and she told me, never give up. And so I wont. I think it's a matter of finding a way in with reasoning and really listening to people's fears. That is what it really is in the end. Their fear and lack of knowledge. So be informed and be willing to educate to the best of your ability. And then just shut up.

[@albirtarsha5370]

"Some crimes are so heinous that they deserve the death penalty." - GW Bush

[@leeadickes7235]

that is a oxymoron coming form that war criminal.

[@joeblow5087]

Prison definitely needs to be in the picture.

[@LAnn-en1vg]

Prison did Not deter Hitler. It turned him into a martyr. And a president. He should be banned from ever holding or influencing office in America.

[@andybaldman]

It won’t be. He always gets away.

[@WAEVOICE]

Go as far as 2009, then.

[@kathya1321]

This is a GREAT interview w/ an excellent guest. Thank you for this timely discussion .. as always questioning is so precise and on target. THANK YOU!!

[@tapps1010]

@Lugosi Do you have a picture of Hitler on your wall along with trump ??

[@9UaYXxB]

@Lugosi Bizarre indifference, just bizarre, and reckless in the extreme. You've heard from the capitol police, you've head from the legislators who had to hide from a mob intent on injury and murder... and your response is "We" don't care..... YOU don't care. But you're opting for mob rule.... screw YOU.

[@kathya1321]

@Lugosi you better START CARING. Our country was almost hijacked by a seditious psychopath. It is not ok. You cannot wipe away the votes of 80 million people because you want to keep your job. Our democracy is in GRAVE PERIL. Pay attention !! Quit your denial.. is not about party politics is about saving our country from THUGS.

[@roybatty3889]

“Lugosi”: Who’s “we”, dipshit?

[@MossyMozart]

@Lugosi - The American people sure care A LOT about the attempted coup by a wanna-be autocrat whose economic and COVID actions played a role in the global recession we are "enjoying" today. The whole world is attending to the hearings. The USA effects people all over the globe - it is the US and the Bush administration and their junk bonds and real estate practices that created the Great Recession of 2007-2009 that dragged the entire world down.

[@jasonmorris9683]

At a minimum none of these people should be allowed to hold office ever again.

[@sandal_thong8631]

The 100+ Republicans who voted to question the election results need to go. But this next election may be so close they don't want to take the action of expelling them.

[@jennifercuddy5663]

I sent one of his video lectures to a person and they just missed the whole thing and it was shocking. It was straightforward enough. I can’t explain it.

[@sal26]

People are stupid. We can't stop what coming.

[@jennifercuddy5663]

@@sal26 I can’t even say that because it was just like they refused to listen objectively and that is why they rejected the entire lecture.

[@scrubjay93]

☹

[@sandal_thong8631]

They must have an agenda to push or a group to punish, like wanting to see Latino children in cages. Move on and find someone around 18-years-old to enlighten.

[@jennifercuddy5663]

@@sandal_thong8631 I don’t think 18 yo’s are in need of being enlightened. They are the demographic being ignored.

[@truman4956]

You asked about fear…. We should all be afraid.

[@michelekett8450]

Fear allows fascism or other anti-democratic movement to flourish. It’s also the reason our bodies become sick. Fear nothing but your own thoughts.

[@MaryamofShomal]

Our Founders argued about whether to even enumerate any rights, for fear that some hateful fascists in the future would look at the Constitution and say, “Gee, only these rights are written down, so if it’s not written down, then that must mean the right doesn’t exist.”

[@corvusroberts5078]

And thus, the 9th amendment....

[@torchedearth8547]

WOW! 🤯

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍

[@terrystevens3998]

They also thought we should rewrite it every generation.

[@thomasblock1882]

@@corvusroberts5078 TV

[@CurleyRadio]

Excellent, thank you, Mr Stanley

[@Tavat]

Have more philosophers like this guy on your program. 👍

[@kittywalker2944]

I completely agree with this guy. I’ve been watching this for years and it’s kind of like climate change - seems most people aren’t paying attention.

[@MaryamofShomal]

That’s always how fascists take over. It’s the boiling frog syndrome, aka creeping normality.

[@e-spy]

We must tell them.

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍

[@kevinoreilly6833]

This "guy" is making statements with no specifics, just speculatuons. He is part of the problem. We are not going into a fascist one party dictatorship ruled by the Republicans. And, we are not in a fascist one party dictatorship ruled by the Democrats either. The dDemocratic party is currenty being repressed by the Republicans. This is what should be happening. Uncomfortable yes, but this is how we DON'T became a fascist dictatorship at all. The situation will reverse in due time. Don't worry 😉.

[@mollflanders9314]

It started in 1990s with that damn Rush Limbaugh spewing hate and lies on AM radio, that too many poorly-educated dupes listened to religiously. I can't tell you how many times I've been exposed to right wing poison in businesses, hospital waiting rooms, and ppl's cars. My last job had Fox playing in the entrance lobby. Smh.

[@lauriemccrackenalsted9778]

Everyone who lied and chose to do wrong needs to go to jail.

[@diorcnidaria9601]

Supreme Court Justice positions should not be life term appointments!

[@erincaitlin1655]

Especially for those who lie, are incompetent and corrupt, and who were put there by a conman ....

[@sandal_thong8631]

If that were the case, then it would have been 6 Republicans to 3 Democrats years ago.

[@gariusjarfar1341]

Donald wasn't lying, Donald believes reality is created by the strongest personality. He actually believes that his persistence is capable of creating reality. He could be right?

[@surfingonmars8979]

TRUMP: INDICT. CONVICT. IMPRISON. As a former prosecutor (Manhattan ADA), I would love to work on this case. Try him in DC or NYC and the jury will convict him in two minutes.

[@kevinjenner9502]

Memo to Trump: Coups are best left to the pro’s (CIA Iran (1953) Guatemala (1954) Congo (1960) Dominican Republic (1961) S. Vietnam (1963) Brazil (1964) Chile (1973)

[@LAnn-en1vg]

Imprisoning Hitler as history shows us after the beer hall incident, only made him come out a martyr (he wrote Mein Kamf) and he still rose to power by bullying a weaker ruling party to win the presidency.

[@surfingonmars8979]

@@LAnn-en1vg It is a little more complicated than that, but you are right in essence - The meme should read TRUMP: INDICT. CONVICT. IMPRISON. HANG. But that might be perceived as advocating illegal violence, but what I mean is that Trump should be hanged for treason, after a full and fair trial and after having exhausted all appeals processes….

[@elaineburnett5230]

@Down with Corporate Amerika please don't spread your despair!

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍

[@marymccluer1630]

Always a pleasure to hear Jason Stanley talk. For all the Republicans who think they would be happier with an authoritarian leader, I imagine the honeymoon would not last long, and then they would be stuck with this guy. We all would be stuck, maybe for generations to come.

[@lucidd4103]

And quiet honestly, and this even if I'm European, i can say without a doubt that a complete collapse of the republican party because of them following blindly Trump would be even more of a threat to democracy. Democracy need people to work together toward a future, not against each others. We have the same problem in Europe were right parties are slowly going toward radicalization, and this need to stop, it's enough, nobody in his right mind want a come back into WW2 radicalization around the globe, and Putin put us all at the brink of it. People need to react and stop this madness, European leaders need to wake up as well. We all, all our parent said "never again", we are all bound to this decision. And it's not even a decision to make anymore, we have no choice, during WW human had a choice, we don't anymore because of the 3k+ nuclear war heads.

[@michaeldeierhoi4096]

I think your "generations to come" fear is pessimistic in the extreme. The US is corrupt on many levels, but it also very different like Nazi Germany in 1933 when Hitler came to power. Hitler won an election and gradually assumed greater and greater power because the people initially bought into his rhetoric. There wasn't the push back at the highest level like there is now. Many people are also more aware of the threat to our democracy though it is looking more like an oligarchy now. If there were a more violent overthrow with elections stolen by conservatives afraid to give up power that could provoke a civil war. Then who does the military support. The military were ready to oppose trump if necessary. Ultimately these things are hard to predict, but I am definitely more hopeful of a positive outcome. There is likely an intense struggle to get there however.

[@hadronoftheseus8829]

That's the problem with Republicans: they're hopelessly uninsightful about absolutely everything, including their own thoughts, motivations, and pragmatic self interest. They're like large goldfish with legs, lungs, and opposable thumbs.

[@michaelkupchik3974]

We have authoritarian leaders now Brandon and Harris

[@michaeldeierhoi4096]

@@michaelkupchik3974 😅😂🤣. That's so absurd I had to laugh!! You call them authoritarian but couldn't even give one example. Look at Biden's record:. He got an infrastructure through to Congress with no help from the useless republiCON party. And he also looks like he will get his Build Back Better bill through thanks to Manchin coming to his senses. Biden has numerous other domestic achievements as well. Now what did trump do? Said he would get an infrastructure bill through but that was just talk. Said he would get better health coverage than Obamacare, but actually he had nothing. trump will be remembered as traitor and hopefully the Justice Dept. will indict him before too long! It's not fair to the rest of us when rich criminals get to walk around free.

[@bewitchingcats]

Your interviews are always worth watching, but this one left me with the question I am too often left to ponder. I hear it said over and over that if those who cherish our democracy don’t do something, we’re going to lose it. What I don’t hear are specifics about what we should do. We vote, and the wrong person takes office. We write to our representatives, and they reply with boilerplate nothings while continuing to be ineffective. What, specifically, must we do save our country??

[@lesliecurran1704]

Well said I ask the same question. I feel like I want to do something but I don't know what to do. We feel powerless.

[@sallyboeras7996]

Read Hearher Cox Richardson the historian. She says we all must join together any Republican, Democrat or Independent who believes in Democracy and who pushes for punishment of the traitors of Jan 6th. They must not be allowed to hold office!! Especially Trump. We may need to have a 3 party system and those traitors also be stripped of their citizenship. They don't deserve to vote or be citizens if they try to over throw the government!!

[@anncottman9826]

Not vote for any republican and give dems more senate seats to get past having to have 60 votes to pass any good legislation that will help working people instead of corporations and the Uber wealthy.

[@Jaggedknife11]

Unions can be a powerful tool, look at the militant unions in Greece when the Golden Dawn (Nazi party in Greece) tried to take power about a decade ago. Look how suddenly in western Europe we have all these strikes that are receiving wide public support from both left and right. A lot of middle-ground people would not support Trump or the Republicans if there was a legitimate left wing party in the U.S that focused on passing workers rights and welfare legislation.

[@lindsayhobbs6536]

When Professor Stanley speaks, I listen. Thank you for helping us to understand our country and what counterproductive portions thereof, Professor. Keep speaking out and writing, some of us are listening and learning.

[@Pou1gie1]

@14:38 We do need to bring prison into the picture. Why are wealthy, connected politicians above the law? This is why people are frustrated to begin with. The rich get richer. The poor go to prison.

[@coffeebuzz69]

What does it mean to "wake up"? We already live in an oligarchy, not a democracy. Public opinion means nothing when it comes to legislative action; instead it's all about satisfying pledges to donors in order to raise funds to get re-elected. Reforming campaign finance rules might save our democracy, but I don't hear any parties pushing that.

[@dsddala467]

Yep. There are a few very easy steps to fix it, but no one has the will in Washington, because it would end their cash cow. 1) Ranked choice voting. 2) Publicly funded federal election campaigns with a modest amount of money for each candidate, and no private monies allowed for anything. 3) 90 day "election season." Primaries, campaigning and election...done, so more endless campaigning, that makes people wary of it and apathetic. 4) Term Limits for Congress. No more 30 or 40 year dinosaurs. 5) Give the Presiding power to the League of Women Voters again for the Presidential Debates, and remove it from the DNC Corporation and the RNC Corporation's gripe who bend over backwards to keep 3rd, 4th and 5th party candidates out, for fear we'd get more than 2 parties. All registered candidates get to participate...no matter how small their party.

[@coffeebuzz69]

@@dsddala467 yes to all that. Seems like a great planks for a 3rd party, seeing as the 2 dominant parties are entrenched and have no incentive to reform.

[@terrystevens3998]

@@coffeebuzz69 Democrats talk about these things if there is a party that will support them it is the dems.. also voting third party while the fascists are mid coup is just a bad idea.. the third party protest stuff helped republicans.. it always helps the right because they understand power and vote religiously while the left cycles out protest crowds each election, the right even pays fake lefty’s to push for it.

[@coffeebuzz69]

@@terrystevens3998 Maybe some dems want reform, but the party currently controls the legislative and executive branches right now and there's not a peep. It is not a priority for the dems, they would rather raise funds on codifying abortion rights, despite not doing so when they previously had an opportunity during the Obama administration.

[@denisdaly1708]

Take to the streets. Democracy marches

[@DailyMindBrew]

Great job. Thank yoiu

[@chrystalweaver618]

Excellent interview! I'm sharing this with everyone!

[@NowHari]

Thank you Ms Weaver.

[@joancrawford1146]

This is truly chilling to listen to! My stomach feels sick!

[@terrystevens3998]

It’s like watching your entire country sleep walk into tyranny hopped up on a false sense of American exceptionalism and denial

[@tristancleer9697]

I can’t even look at the justices when these programs show the court, and they are smiling, and the majority have turned on us.

[@mikeriley3938]

They're sickening.

[@mikeriley3938]

@Christina Evans Seriously. Are you a MAGA troll.

[@gwills9337]

Supreme Court is a medieval, regressive institution

[@margaretsomerville2510]

courts are not intended to be party puppets. very sad as a 50 yr plan to build a potitical theme. a democracy is dependent on rule of law not loyalty to a leader nor church and corporations

[@ladyspirit2493]

Professor Jason Stanley is our HERO! Please pass his knowledge on to as many people as possible! Thanks

[@deannaartzbennett244]

We are already there, actually. We have never had an actual democracy, it was ever thus, that , "he who has the gold makes the rules." We are clearly Not a constitutional Republic under the current court and legislative policies. We are in fact, a corporate oligarchy, have been since Reaganomics, and will remain so until our elected Congress rejects corporate funding of the reelection process and returns the tax code to reflect fair play and common sense between corporate concerns and citizenship. Because each Congressperson benefits directly under this corruption, how likely are we to see the necessary changes in systems policy? The run arounds, that defeat the popular vote must be abolished. There is absolutely no distinction in process or function between this so- called two party system. Process: corrupt Function: negligible

[@KM-pm6qe]

We got pretty close, though. Citizens United poisoned us.

[@mossydog2385]

"Unless Americans wake up and do something about it" - I've lost count of how many times I've heard that in the past 40 or so years... Enlighten us, the great unwashed, O great scholar... DO WHAT.....exactly? I vote, and participate as much as is possible for a lowly member of the general public, but please, enlighten us all ... DO, WHAT!?

[@roberttassone7676]

You are correct. Voting has not worked for over 40 years and probably longer. It has been said that TR was bought but wouldn't stay bought.

[@mossydog2385]

@@roberttassone7676 I wasn't arguing AGAINST voting. Voting thoughtfully for candidates who first support democracy and second will work for the interests of their constituents is the LEAST we, as responsible citizens can do, but we, the citizenry, are constantly being admonished to "do something to save democracy" by powerful insiders, I merely want to know EXACTLY WHAT we should be doing, and as yet I haven't gotten an answer....from anyone.

[@ey67]

Simple they want people to become martyrs by dying and doing the dirty work for them. They want the poor angry and uneducated to save them while they have all been taking corporate bribes for decades. Good luck with that one.

[@roberttassone7676]

@@mossydog2385 that is the ultimate question. The constitution is a contract between Americans and between Americans and the government. What is one side to do when the other side will not honor that contract? The founding fathers certainly knew and prepared for this day.

[@KM-pm6qe]

@@mossydog2385study what has made the conservative movement so successful. Lots of organizing, lots of money (killing Citizens United needs to be high on the list of priorities) and a willingness to do the boring stuff for decades to play and win the long game.

[@ChristiaanHartNibbrig]

It has been far too long since Jason Stanley has been interviewed on this program. He is brilliant, insightful, and articulate. We, Americans, are in a boatload of trouble at the moment. Gentle suggestion: Have Mr. Stanley on more frequently; the same goes for Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat and the terrific Masha Gessen. And give all of them more time. Thank you.

[@susanharrison2941]

Absolutely

[@NowHari]

I think I’ve interviewed him thrice. You can look back at the playlist including all my interviews and find him that way.

[@kathya1321]

So true.. he really made some important points. Loved this interview!

[@nura1627]

I second!

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@frederickgriffith7004]

America is done.It is just a matter of time.There is a very powerful minority of people who believe that a representative Democracy means the sharing of power and resources.And they do not want that.So you just keep struggling Americans at each other's throats and eventually they will vote so their "enemies" no longer have any rights at all.Not realizing that soon they are going to lose their rights too.

[@lizannewhitlow1085]

The word I used to hate the most was “torture.” Now the word is “loyal.”

[@rogerhull5632]

Our government no longer reflects the broad range of public opinion.

[@5rings16]

You liberals never thought that when you tried to pound Obamacare down our throats! LOL

[@deborahedelman2659]

They have not for some time

[@notreally2406]

And the public opinion is skewed by a small agenda driven monopoly

[@WAEVOICE]

Maybe the issue is with the range of public opinion. If you want a government to cover that much ground, you're asking for a lot than you wish.

[@5rings16]

You have future elections

[@bobbullethalf]

Supreme Court check, next President check. We are headed towards some bad actions in this country.

[@normabenanzer1161]

Check

[@spaceballs44]

New Zealand I’ve never been there, I have to update my Passport.

[@5rings16]

Democrat party will be irrelevant!!

[@davidsalo8397]

The good and decent people will leave. The gullible and depraved people will stay. The USA is falling, and the majority of Republicans are cheering it on. Every day there's another version of this story.

[@5rings16]

@@davidsalo8397 We don't like the gov!!

[@wilhouts6173]

Yes, it is socially responsible and news-worthy (re)education of the population to have these kind of interviews offered. Having our present day educators giving us the 30k foot view helps. Thank you for the perspective offered by Mr. Stanley, and I agree Professor Ruth Ben-Ghiat would be helpful to have on again too.

[@kimberlyx4060]

Thanks for this. I understand what he is saying and in a way I understand we need to keep working to keep our democracy.

[@kesart8378]

The fear of legal jeopardy, not moral rectitude, impelled some to do the "right thing" and not display further complicity How well does the system work when self-interest and not morality drives the decision-making of powerful people?

[@loveblue2]

Obviously, not very well. But, I've never thought of morality as being very high on the list of powerful people. Quite the opposite, frankly. Still, Trump and Company were/are a different kind of breed, in every sense of the word. He's like a crazed, not very bright, narcissistic, racist madman who everyone caters to. Thank goodness for legal jeopardy, or who the hell knows WHAT could have been the final result of the big lie.

[@kesart8378]

@@loveblue2 Quite right you are...But "The Big lie" persists, as do its consequences: greater polarization, radicalized Republicans running for offices that oversee the electoral process, voter purging and the passage of voter suppression legislation, corrosive partisan redistricting/gerrymandering, etc. Things are far from resolved, far from over. Cheers

[@tusuong7654]

China spent 1 billion of dollars on the US medias . There are many communists party members are actively working in the USA . Wake up the USA. China released the Wuhan virus to make the USA voted by mails and the voting machines are make in China, China’s Silent Takeover While America's Elite Slept kzbin.info/www/bejne/nmmsdqeihLutp5Y . There ate millions of China 50 cents armies commentators . Top 10 Chinese Knockoffs of Foreign Products | China Uncensored kzbin.info/www/bejne/qqmYq5ecYsd6asU

[@joenewmeyer8358]

You mean like BLM RIOTS?

[@Chris-gm4hk]

If democracies are fragile then corruption is the cracks making them crumble.

[@5rings16]

We are a republic.

[@deborahedelman2659]

Well said!!

[@thomaswikstrand8397]

@@5rings16 yes?

[@mayainverse9429]

one of the things that makes them fragile is claiming the other half of the country is fascist and must be not allowed to take power at any cost. I wonder why people thought the election was rigged. maybe because people like this make people like you believe you must do anything and everything to stop their side from winning. its pretty easy to "stop" whatever it is the right is doing. and that is stop treating them like shit stop trying to control them in every aspect of life. see the country has "diverse" people in it and if you cant accept people who are not like you are living here then I guess that just makes you a bigot.

[@BrockLanders]

It’s a good thing we live in a republic

[@fondonteven8241]

Thanks for this interview. I agree most-heartedly w/J Stanley. As regards accountability, we are in the same lane in opining the abusers & confusers must be relieved of any leadership positions . but must add- incarceration when appropriate & applicable.

[@michaeltyler4314]

In short -- Lock Them Up !!!!

[@georgeelmerdenbrough6906]

I think we are heading for a 3 party system . A right party , a left party and a homogenized center party . There is a big chasm between the far right and moderate Republicans , just as there is a chasm between Neoliberal moderates and The Progressives . The moderates of both sides have more in common with each other . The draw to unite is undeniable . I really believe we will see a 3 party system .

[@elviejodelmar2795]

"Is there something in the government system...?" Yes. The Constitution and the poltical procedures that evolved are as susceptable to exploitation as was the Weimar Republi. And if the GOP flips Congress in the midterms will -- in all probability -- lead to the same end.

[@panchopuskas1]

Absolutely. The democratic process in the USA is leaking water at a fast pace. Electoral colleges, unequal senate representation, and extreme gerrymandering are just some examples. Add to that the separation of powers between the states and federal authorities which are not clear which makes you wonder if the United States is indeed one nation....under God or otherwise. And the myth of the “checks and balances” which Trump has shown to be hardly existent. Something needs to be done or what this guy is suggesting COULD happen, will.....

[@grimjim69]

If Dems lose Congress it's because people are tired of incompetence

[@corvusroberts5078]

It might. Democracies require constant vigilance [as Franklin alluded to on leaving the Constitutional Convention]. But all gov'ts are susceptible to corruption, because they are made by people. As such, your highest duty must be to become as evolved as you can

[@edwardcahill1631]

The terrible reality is not if but when they flip congress as the corporate controlled democratic leadership are not delivering any of the promises, it's just turned out to be another betrayal of the democratic voters for corporate money. In fact the democrat's are very, very comfortable with the right-wing mindset because while we hear left rhetoric from them they give only right-wing policies or no good gutted ones. I think they are right-wingers underneath their center leaning left rhetoric.

[@multimeter2859]

@@corvusroberts5078 We're a republic, not a democracy.

[@cyberingcatgirls7069]

We're pretty much already IN a one-party state, just with two different flavors that disagree on a couple of issues but pretty much agree on how to tax the wealthy (not much), how much to spend on the military industrial complex (a lot) fossil fuels (drill baby drill) etc.

[@mayainverse9429]

the wealthy pay the lions share of the countries operating costs. everyone else are simply riding on their coat tails.

[@cyberingcatgirls7069]

@@mayainverse9429 Wrong. Learn how fiat currency works.

[@toyuniverses]

No, there has never been more difference between the parties. We just need to elect enough Democrats so that they can actually pass a more progressive agenda. The GOP is anti-science and anti-democracy and wants to live in a white Christian theocracy.

[@cyberingcatgirls7069]

@@toyuniverses No, both parties are beholden to corporations and the wealthy. You are choosing between an oligarchy where abortion and gay marriage are legal and an oligarchy in which they are not. 99% of people are oppressed in either oligarchy, the only difference being that in one oligarchy some groups are oppressed even more. Focusing on those few while defending the "less evil" oligarchy is just the sort of narrow, childish view of politics that the establishment want you to have.

[@toyuniverses]

​@@cyberingcatgirls7069 Government certainly breaks down if the rich take control of the politicians. This is always a problem in a democracy, since it's cheaper to get the right people into power than to pay taxes or obey rules. This is why it's so corrosive to have so much money in politics in the US, and the push to allow more and more money in politics has been driven lately by the Republicans and right-wing/libertarian judges who treat money as free speech. The Democrats have fought against this, largely because allowing more money helped the other side more than them. This dynamic has made the Republicans more corrupt and less reality-based, but now we're into a new and deadlier dynamic. The lies, conspiracy theories, resentments and fears Republicans have amplified to get and hold onto power while only serving the oligarchs have become reality for half the country, and Republican politicians are now more beholden to insane ideas than to the oligarchs! So the world is about to spin off into much darker and more dangerous places if they aren't stopped. Right now it's not about abortion and gay marriage, or even inequality and social justice, it's about having a government that can solve problems rather than create them, in a world with difficult and deadly problems that need to be solved! Consider climate change. Unchecked, it will cause loss of world political stability, hunger, wars, refugees, etc. Democrats want to solve this problem, Republicans want to ignore it and pretend it doesn't exist. The Republican party is too broken right now to fix anything, but the Democrats still believe in science and reality. Let's try to stay alive long enough to be able to deal with the rest of our problems!

[@JerzyFeliksKlein]

I love that bit of American exceptionalism thrown in the end. So cute, so naïve...

[@hollyhold562]

Laws WITH ACCOUNTABILITY DOES deter crime, I guess.

[@heathers.7975]

Right on. There must be legal consequences. There has to be punishment. But, "conflicted?" I heard nothing that suggested that Trump was conflicted.

[@robblincoln2152]

Trump is a “dark triangle” sociopath who attracts other sociopaths. This is just a minority of the US population, but there are enough power hungry norms or uninformed fools out there that they get close to 30-40%-enough so that with proper gerrymandering and low opposition turn out they can win national elections. GET OUT THE VOTE needs to happen in EVERY STATE if we are to make these criminals pay the price for trying to systematically and intentionally overthrow the government with violence!

[@edandkarendamadio4108]

We cannot let the right wing conservatives dominate all governments. Federal, State, and local. It's just not American. I put the uniform of the U.S. Army to fight against Nazism, and Fascism, and a lot of Americans died doing the same thing. We cannot allow them to have died in vain.

[@qjtvaddict]

Use their own crap against them

[@equusasinus]

Umberto Eco's 1995 essay "Ur Fascism" (Eternal Fascism) in the New York Review of books is the great classic essay on fascism that everyone should read.

[@erincaitlin1655]

Agree.

[@marilynnyoung7026]

Excellent interview and I always appreciate Mr. Stanley's POV on this topic of fascism. I generally watch them more than once-his perspective is crucially important at this time.

[@GilmerJohn]

Perhaps you should study the definition of "Fascism."

[@MossyMozart]

@@GilmerJohn - @Mari Lynn Young is correct in the use of the word "fascism". You can EASILY see that in this Merriam-Webster Dictionary entry --- "Definition of fascism: 1. often capitalized a political philosophy, movement, or regime (such as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition 2: a tendency toward or actual exercise of strong autocratic or dictatorial control //"...early instances of army fascism and brutality..." - J. W. Aldridge//"

[@GilmerJohn]

@@MossyMozart -- Well, Trump only asked that the Nation first and foremost exists for the citizens of that nation. That's the reverse of Fascism. Trump definitely isn't any kind of an "autocrat." He's a classic "small d" democrat. But you knew that, didn't you.

[@debbiefranc105]

@@GilmerJohn Trump is a dictator wannabe that's why he closely aligned himself and our country to Russia and North Korea and away from our allies.

[@uniquelylily1166]

@@GilmerJohn no, he's not. He's a narcissistic fascist who wants authoritarian rule. If you can't see that, you're blind. He's got Mob Boss sprinkled in there. This man is right.

[@deborahedelman2659]

Such any important discussion...thank you both and if course Amanpour which ALWAYS hits it out of the park!!

[@NowHari]

Thanks for watching.

[@louisea.7736]

America should ALWAYS be REQUIRED to constitutionally be run by MORE THAN ONE PARTY. Period.

[@kimk2635]

It's like Trump read that book on his nightstand, Stalin's playbook

[@amyjones2490]

No it was Hitlers book on Trumps nigh stand according to his wife.

[@akinpaws]

The book My New Order, a collection of Hitler's speeches.

[@barryepstein2816]

Excellent interview! Grateful that PBS has consistently covered this and related issues. And grateful for Jason's voice!! One question that I wish asked is his current belief as to the danger and chance of major (additional) loss of American democracy. What is his prognosis? Thanks again!!

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍

[@lenblack1462]

Mine is not good. The two parties are two sides of the same coin. They both serve to protect capital, not the people.

[@Buttercup697]

@@lenblack1462 as a whole, probably. But there are individuals in the Democratic Party fighting for substantial change.

[@terrystevens3998]

@@lenblack1462 the centrist pro corporate dems are not working for the people, but the progressive wing more aligned with Bernie are willing to fight the elite centrist dems who are no different the republicans fiscally but better on social issues.

[@lenblack1462]

@@Buttercup697 Who, the Squad? They've fallen in-line behind Nancy Pelosi.

[@christinet6336]

I love this professor. He’s very direct and knowledgeable. I must say that prior to Roe versus Wade being over turned, I was in an abyss of despair because I saw the country going down a fascist road and history shows us how nasty and brutal and murderous fascism can be for people who are not Caucasian, able-bodied, heterosexual, men. That said, since the overturning of roe versus wade I am 1000% confident that people will come out in droves over the course of the next 10 to 15 to 20 years and take this country back from the jaws of religious zealots and patriotic extremists. There is no way that the majority of white women in the United States will accept this. Also, the LGBTQ community know that they are next on the chopping block so they will not sit back and take it either. This country is about to see a wave of blue that it has probably never seen before in its history. Lol. I can’t wait to get my popcorn and be a part of it.

[@rolandxor179]

White heterosexual men were by far the largest victim group of 20th century authoritarian regimes. No one gets even close in terms of deaths and suffering. The fact you claim not to know this is shocking. But it shows how effective anti-white , anti-male, propaganda is.

[@rolandxor179]

No one is more zealous then the so-called 'woke' left. With it's hunt for heritics and to then attempt to ruin their lives for saying something heritical aka 'cancel culture'.

[@christinet6336]

@@rolandxor179 Being 'woke' is a beautiful thing. It means being open, respectful, accepting, and knowledgeable to concepts and people who've been left out of the historical conversation. I value 'woke-ness' and know that we'll see more of it as my daughter's generation (Z) come of age. The ugly and totally unnecessary prejudices of the past will eventually die out along with my generation (X) and up (Boomers). Good. 😁

[@ms.q7445]

@Heather Petersen What we do Heather is vote in such numbers that they cannot deny or fudge-Democrats already have a deficit of 40 million votes in the senate. Meaning 50 red state senators represent 40 million fewer people than 50 blue state senators. That is not democracy; it needs changed. But we CAN do it. Ideally without violence, because that’s what makes us better than them.

[@rolandxor179]

@@christinet6336 Do you even read your own words ? You sound exactly like the religious zealots you claim to oppose. All religions,ideologies,cults target children there is nothing to be proud about if your child grows up a 'woke-ist' youth who has no clue about the real world. Past generations have valuable things to teach us. If something was not valued perhaps there was a good reason for that.

[@clairem730]

This was such a great interview, thanks. I hope his words are heeded.

[@kassiapencek6185]

Wow well articulated! We need him in the forefront media. He is able to slice threw sleepiness from the witch's apple.

[@foxtrotbravo2549]

DT would have been modern day Stalin if he had gotten a second term.

[@deborahedelman2659]

Truism!!

[@richardsimms251]

To Foxtrot Bravo : Is that ever true !! Just give Trump enough time and he will evolve into another tyrant with lots of help with the same people around him.

[@pjpredhomme7699]

not that competent - more like Sadam Hussein

[@fretnesbutke3233]

He wants what Putin and Kim have. He got pushback in his 1st term. His 2nd term: dismantle NATO,stab all our allies in the back,give Europe to Putin, destroy the Constitution, imprison journalists and enemies and ally with the other world dictators. The Free World would be left in tatters. From 2016 on,I have not felt at home in my native country. I understand now how 1930s Germany happened. And the perpetrators aren't finished. They have more plans. I fear that Merrick Garland doesn't realize how dire this is and underestimates the enemies.

[@sevenstarsofthedipper1047]

All of them should go to prison for the rest of their lives. Someone should also be held responsible for the Capitol officer’s death. Anything short of this is a capitulation to fascism.

[@mayainverse9429]

not a single capitol officer was killed during the protests nor as a result of injuries received during the protest. however one of the protesters who was a single mother was murdered by the capital police. I am guessing police brutality no longer matters now that it is "one of them" who died?

[@sandal_thong8631]

Back in the day when the mob came the police would step aside and allow them to lay hands on the person in their custody. The head (who later resigned) decided not to call in enough staff to handle the event, and if the insurrectionists had brought guns they would have got what they wanted: Mike Pence and Nancy Pelosi.

[@valeriewhite141]

What Jason speaks about regarding those who knew about the big lie is what’s shocking to our democracy. The knowing of truth mattered little to those enabling the plot to overthrow our government; it’s what’s most chilling. Inside Traitors willing to commit seditious treason, affect all Americans! 💔🇺🇸💔

[@nlsantiesteban]

As a POC I’m both scared and tired.

[@janusroland]

So true. The people are realizing more and more that the Democrats and Republicans will never serve the needs of the average person. More and more people will be changing their party affiliation, voting and writing-in Green and Independent whenever they get a chance.

[@user-qn6yt3zx3w]

“Headed to a one party state” It’s been a one party state since 1994 when Clinton gave up on any semblance of a second party and pandered to the same corporate oligarchy as Reagan - big money has been fully in-charge since then - whether it’s the war-industry, the banks or healthcare, both parties are fully co-opted and we-the-people are no longer a consideration.

[@emsleywyatt3400]

Clinton had no choice. After Reagan busted the unions, the Democrats had to get their money from somewhere.

[@Gina-fl9sk]

Agreed! Money is god.

[@ey67]

True

[@tarajoyce3598]

I would suggest that we've been corporate owned since Harding sold the country to JPMORGAN. The mask is very close to being no longer necessary. Roller Ball, The Handmaid's Tale or Solient Green?

[@holdon4992]

“Citizens United”

[@l.w.4701]

Here’s the thing; many people do what’s right because they know it’s right. However there is a large enough contingent of people who will only do what’s right if they think they’ll be punished for doing what is wrong. Frustrating for those of us who are willing to do what is right because it is the right thing to do. We do need to protect ourselves against those who really don’t give a care

[@lakecountynaturalist7617]

One party state? We're busting apart at the seams. There will be no America left if the violations of civils rights continue.

[@oldones59]

Regarding violence, I hope our nation doesn't descend so deeply, that either the National Guard (anywhere) or law enforcement officials end up firing live rounds at anybody. I'm thinking of the tragedy at Kent State on May 4, 1970. This is no joke. I love the USA 🇺🇸 ⚖ ☮

[@juliehenderson1672]

Prisons DO need to be part of the picture or it will repeat. Otherwise, you give them exactly what the criminal terrorist are expecting. No punishment. History repeats.

[@lm7092]

This is an important point. You cannot have different punishment outcomes for people because they are a different status.

[@seymorepencilart]

I’m surprised you did not have Chris Hedges on for this topic. Ever since Jan 6 happened, I keep on thinking about the book American Fascism.

[@MaryamofShomal]

Hedges voted for Nader and for Russian-plant Jill Stein; he also worked for Russian state TV. A journalist of Christiane’s integrity and her colleagues wouldn’t promote Putin apologists and propagandists. With that being said: there are plenty of brilliant authors with other books about the rise of American fascism (both in the 20th and 21st centuries), and its connection with the white evangelical movement.

[@seymorepencilart]

@@MaryamofShomal I’ve never heard of Jill Stein being a Russian-plant.

[@dolliscrawford280]

This fellow uses simpler words than Chris Hedges. Right now that is just what I need. Thought Trump would have been arrested by now with more charges coming soon.

[@jaykay415]

@Down with Corporate Amerika Exactly!!! (re your corporate media comment)

[@diffened]

Jacob, Hedges is on the record saying he didn't think was a real coup attempt.

[@patrick247two]

The USA is treating itself as it treated Chile in 1973.

[@nancydouglas8772]

I totally agree that any political official involved in the insurrection should never be allowed to hold office or vote again. They are traitors.

[@oleeb]

It’s already a one party state and has been for a long time.

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍

[@9UaYXxB]

Essentially you're right... the democrats are an abashed party (I'm saying they are sell outs), while the republicans are insanely grasping, they'll tell ANY lie for power.

[@sevenstarsofthedipper1047]

The choice is between neoliberalism or fascism. So, while both parties are capitalists, they are qualitatively different when it comes to capitalism’s implementation.

[@janusroland]

So true. The people are realizing more and more that the Democrats and Republicans will never serve the needs of the average person. More and more people will be changing their party affiliation, voting and writing-in Green and Independent whenever they get a chance.

[@sandal_thong8631]

People who say it's a one-party system either have blinders on, or are trying to suppress the vote. The fewer people who vote, the more likely extremists can win..

[@kusheran]

Put the knife down... We are in a gun fight!

[@garwynrosser8907]

The price of freedom is eternal vigilance.

[@SMF314]

So if the new Supreme Court decision means (5:40) "arms can be carried essentially anywhere", could a Proud Boy who passed a background check bring his AK47 to a polling place, or to a political rally? Does it overrule existing state laws banning guns at the polls?

[@sandal_thong8631]

If the shoe was on the other foot, Republicans would just say they weren't going to follow a ruling by a liberal Supreme Court, and they will just keep doing what they've been doing and you can come and arrest them, and we'll see if you get a conviction in court! I think that's what New York, and abortion clinics and the EPA should do. Instead they're like, "Oh my, we might get arrested or sued. It's so unclear."

[@donna777lynn]

Amazing interview, God help us

[@deborahedelman2659]

👍