The Trump movement is turning America fascist w/Jeff Sharlet | The Chris Hedges Report

Jeff Sharlet has spent two decades covering the intersection of extreme Christian nationalism and the far-right. In his new book, Undertow: Scenes from a Slow Civil War, he gives snapshots of a country rapidly devolving into a Christian fascism state. He captures the rage, the despair, the dislocation, the alienation, the aesthetic of violence, and the magical thinking that are the foundations of all fascist movements-forces that are now coalescing around the Trump-led Republican Party. The bizarre conspiracy theories and buffoonish quality of many who lead and embrace this movement, such as Republican Rep. Lauren Boebert, make the use American fascists easy to ridicule and dismiss. But Sharlet implores us to take them seriously as an existential threat to what is left of our anemic democracy. Jeff Sharlet joins The Chris Hedges Report to discuss his new book and the rising tide of Christofascism threatening our democracy.
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[@jamesparker1071]

"To find the Tyrant simply see who you are not allowed to criticize."

[@coalbiter4368]

And it sure ain’t Trump

[@PrimoStracciatella]

"The Southern Poverty Law Center described Storm as a producer of “anti-Semitic and racist material” who pleaded guilty to possession of child pornography in a federal trial in 2008. The BBC described him as a neo-Nazi."

[@petemorton8403]

How can a guy who acts so smart not be able to see what is real. Just look at these last three years, my God.

[@aventura8491]

@@petemorton8403 Because CH is an establishment figure, fighting the "fascists". By combining some truths with lies and have these, mostly "intellectual" types of actors, doing their misleading stuff from both sides (or rather different angles, but mostly from two well recognised blocks) you can skillfully sow discontent, anger and ultimately conflict within a population. And surprise surprise, there is nothing the "elites" like more than pitting the slaves against each other, rather than themselves.

[@kevinrice7635]

Agreed 💯

[@jeradblazek677]

Hate to break it to people, but America has been fascistic for decades, at least by original popular definition of "fascism". Corporate oligarchs have been controlling government policy since before WW2, and has only become more prevalent to the average person in recent years.

[@floodo1]

true

[@cosmos237]

The is oligarchy instigated WWII as a tool to break the grip of European colonialism and gain access to the resources within...

[@paulkesler1744]

Exactly --- read Adam Winkler's book, WE THE CORPORATIONS, to understand the history of corporatism in America. Winkler doesn't focus on fascism per se, but it's clearly revealed throughout the book, especially from the period beginning around the late 19th century. Things started to turn nasty once corporations gained the rights of "persons" under the Constitution, with corporate attorneys citing the 14th Amendment as "justification." It's been all downhill from there.

[@Monkismo]

Sure, but the "patriots" on the right have been whining about how unfair it is to tax them or regulate their businesses the whole time. It's a joke for apologists to pretend that they agree with the left on minimizing the power of the "elite."

[@BriarLeaf00]

It has had a serious fascist bent but the Auto Workers victory is something that by definition could not happen in a fascist state. Are we terrible settler-colonists? Yes, but to simply declare us as a fascist state borders on absolving people of responsibility.

[@thespartan8476]

Those who don’t study history are doomed to repeat it. Yet those who do study history are doomed to stand by helplessly while everyone else repeats it.

[@livingLge]

The challenge for us is to figure out a way to express what we see happening to those that may not be part of the cult, but view our ringing of the "fascist" warning bell as hysteria. These are the ones we need to convince l.

[@Therecouldbehope]

“History is nothing more than a set of lies agreed upon.” ~ God

[@andrewgardiner3484]

So nothing is stopping us (by "us" I mean the left) from preparing ourselves for what these two believe is the inevitable: a second civil war. And by preparing, I mean buying firearms. I know we all want and wish for a peaceful resolution to where some people are headed. But suppose they aren't the reasonable type. Not too far fetched of an assumption. We need to be able to do something more than call our local representative in Congress. Or expect that the police or national guard will stop an insurrection once it's begun. First of all, hald of them, and probably more than half, will be the ones fomenting secession. And they are definitely carrying major fire power. We can't let ourselves be caught flat footed with our pants down and nothing but our peace signs and a Bible in our hands. Going back to Germany in 1930's. The Jews were outnumbered, yes, but they were also out armed. Imagine if they had freedom we still have in the Second Amendment. It's not there just for those on the right. We too are allowed to own weapons for our self defense. And simply having firearms isn't enough. We are at the point where we need to receive training in warfare. We need to know about sabotage, tactics, and military organization. I hope I'm wrong, but more and more it doesn't look like it. I've been predicting civil war for ten or more years. And I've been mentally preparing for it the entire time. Soon, I will be purchasing some weaponry and I will be studying battle field strategies and improvisational defenses. I won't be one of those victims obeying them. I will be the one who knocks. Keep an eye on the truckers. They will be the first act. When store shelves start to become empty and the food supply becomes critical, that's when you should be ready. Truckers will be able to shut down every major highway in the country at the drop of a hat. In California, 10 million people rely upon the food that comes down the Interstate 5 from the Central Valley. All it would take is a dozen big rigs to jackknife on The Grapevine to shut down all of Southern California's food supply. Then a few pounds of dynamite on the train tracks out around Mojave and voila. Civil War. Mark my words. But don't wring your hands in worry. Get going and be prepared.

[@gadaffi1000]

@@Therecouldbehope God does our washing once a week. Other than that, he has no opinion in my house.

[@IB4UUB4ME]

@@gadaffi1000does your washing? What does that even mean?

[@Pbirv]

This is NOT going to end well- for ANYBODY.

[@crackthefoundation_]

Yep. Even the DoD was warning, months ago now? That their, I assume, highly advanced wargame simulations- that no matter how they tweaked the parameters - it would end in nuclear confrontation - isnotreal being the most hostile and essentially su1c1dal actor, who have been using this blackmail technique since 1973.

[@leeanderson5955]

If fascism is the merger of state and corporate interests the the FACT that almost all politicians act as lobbyists for corporations then yeah, fascism is a fact in modern culture.

[@DystopianUtopia8]

Correct

[@jeffspicolli593]

LOL. The merger of state and corporate interests is the communism that is the darling of the left

[@theairevolution2430]

Absolutely. All assisted by the US Supreme Court.

[@Historia.Magistra.Vitae.]

_"If fascism is the merger of state and corporate interests"_ It is not. Mussolini has never said such a thing. Common misquote. Fascism was all about the State. There was no merging. There was no corporate power and its interests were irrelevant.

[@timberdoodle6924]

​ @@Historia.Magistra.Vitae.not according to my research - he made it very clear - cooperation within the the state / private entity was the rule.

[@marcelldwight8235]

We need to get money out of politics. Period! Nonstop!

[@micmic9410]

It’s gonna be like getting military weapons off the 2nd amendment. 80% of the country want reform on both subjects, but these politicians are not abiding by their constituents. 😢

[@metamoney7657]

Capitalism gives money to people with high iq that’s the whole point.

[@TheSwissPoliticalSystem]

absolutely! the best, most democratic. time-tested system, is the Swiss political system.

[@bluelines1]

Not to mention criminals, rapists and crazy people.. which are all apply to the Drumf.

[@kristopherziegler8110]

This is probably the biggest globbly guck I've ever heard masked as intellectual. It's really interesting to call a Trump rally a "far right" event. The conservative values are the constitution, fascism goes against the constitution. The 2 can not exist because it's the right of the people vs the right of the leader. Here are some facts to consider: Trump wanted to build the wall and ban Muslim countries but let in more legal immigrants than Obama. You guys really have gotten so delusional into believing your books as fact. This failed to make the connection of fascism and modern day. You can't use the word fascism to define the correlation between then and now.

[@lynneholdaway5133]

This is very disturbing as to how it seems many have lost complete reason.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

I find it very disturbing as a canadian that US Democrat supporters are the only people on the planet who cannot see or refuse to see Joe Biden's obvious cognitive decline. I will never forgive or forget the gross irresponsibility of the US Democrats for foisting a man with dementia in as Leader of the Free World in these very dangerous times internationally.

[@edwardmccall450]

The mega corporations, corrupt government, and big bankers are the problem.

[@lugcastillo]

Ignorance is the greatest threat to democracy!

[@stanleyshannon4408]

Democracy is the greatest threat to democracy.

[@lugcastillo]

@@stanleyshannon4408 no stupidity is

[@helenfairhall6440]

Since when has America been a democracy, please supply your evidence this should be good

[@jamesmichaeljean7840]

The USA is a republic, never a democracy.

[@BrianTakita]

Aah good ol Democracy...Where the 51 % can oppress the 49 %...Where you can vote for the red a**hole or the blue a**hole...both funded by the same circle wealthy elites. Same agendas with different marketing. What a sacred system.

[@yarnpower]

No Christian preacher should preach fascism or greed or mistreatment of any group. That is far from Jesus’ words and actions.

[@gingernightmare9152]

But they do. I've listened to it most of my life.

[@xNeonWarlockx]

No it isn't. Do you know why he was crucified? I'll give you a hint, it looked a lot like January 6th. Also, look up Judas the Galilean, who is thought to be the real Jesus.

[@DeaconBlues25]

What?@@xNeonWarlockx

[@puffthemagiclepton7534]

If you are an Enemy of Trump you are my Enemy.

[@xNeonWarlockx]

@@DeaconBlues25 the cleansing of the temple?

[@jennifergeorge7641]

“The snake” really is an excellent metaphor for Trump. “You knew what I was when you took me in”. Yes the Trump supporters know. They just don’t think the snake will bite them

[@therealivydawg]

I thought that's what he was talking about. But I've never heard the full context of it until this video.

[@lookup6928]

Man, I tell you, when I saw drumpt recite those lines at a rally and they were googoo-eyed and applauding. Scary shet. This is real.

[@xs10tl1]

Trump delivered 3 years of peace and prosperity until the Liberal International Order Snakes took over and proceeded to gnaw away for 4 years.

[@iconifyme]

It's worse than that, they do not realize that Trump is the snake and they are the old lady in the story.

[@KaiserSoze-us9ji]

Is it snowing in Denver ?

[@poigmhahon]

I really appreciate Jeff Sharlet's putting the fascist underpinnings of American christian fundamentalism in the broader historical context. So much of our history has been interwoven with this mindset. "manifest destiny". Cognitive dissonance of the "believers" leaves a wide vacuum filled with disinformation, prejudices, fear and violence.

[@fredschnerbert1238]

*They are almost as crazy as people who like Karl Marx..*

[@midnightmc3096]

Yeah, but the quotation mark goes after the period 😁

[@anak.-ix5zg]

Oh, boo-hoo to your head! 😂

[@edwardmiessner6502]

And guess which 20th Century dictator and his minions were inspired by Manifest Destiny? Hint: he wore a Charlie Chaplin moustache and not a normal one like Stalin's. They were also inspired by the USAmerican doctrine of Jim Crow.

[@Yourefreekinbrilliant]

Indeed

[@glascoebowie9359]

It ain't what the president can do for the people it's what the president can do for the ruling class.

[@tripzincluded8087]

not even can, the globalist' dislike open endings. What the candidate will do for them.. (::)

[@cynthianesbitt6197]

Shawney!!!

[@markantrobus8782]

It is not what America can do for you but what you can do for Donald J Trump. 🙄

[@gatormcklusky5850]

what exactly is it about the Biden policy's that's helping the people? i can name more than 6 that are hurting, Clearly your information is coming from one area/side i guess the ignorant can sleep easier not knowing all sides.

[@lestercarvin4422]

Yes and what Creepy Joe can do for his pocket book

[@annjuurinen6553]

It is America's great sin that nearly half of all adults can barely read to the Grade 6 level. There is an old movement which encouraged learning how to read. Frontier College. Canada. Where each person who can read has the responsibility to teach one other person who needs to read. There is great opportunity to move America in a different direction.

[@mandyinseattle]

Well, thank God there are audio books so anytime can be story time and just sit back and listen and learn. It's my favorite way to read a book these days and it's how I "read" "Undertow."

[@twodonks]

The problem is many PAB cult members have no interest in literacy. My extended family of Christian white nationalist fascists are perfectly happy with their bible, the PAB, and Q. Sad but true.

[@truetech4158]

​@@mandyinseattlethank what, Escapism from reality? Victim impact statements treated like bird cage liners by the willfully ignorant. My home received an arson threat from a smiley unapologetic catholic cleptomaniac, but arsons never really produce afterlives, even though he really won't clinically treat his culty schizophrenic themed narcissism, escapism.

[@tomgerste1818]

A bad direction as those that can't read are being emotionally brainwashed towards autocratic rule.

[@KevinBullard]

The direction of fascist Canada where the government jails/punishes/silences dissent? Great idea! Freedom of Speech is a lie anyway

[@KingBrandonm]

Fascism always uses societal decadence as a reason to go fascist yet the fascists are always the most decadent

[@tom-kz9pb]

Very well said!

[@pyongyangbroadcastingservi3086]

Give an example.

[@greglogan7706]

@KingBrandonm - Nice!

[@shirleyandrews1152]

Yes! Look at the Repub Party the churches. They want to eliminate what they themselves r doing.. what’s that Shakespeare quote? “Me thinks he duth object too much”.😅😅

[@shirleyandrews1152]

So true!

[@Stikibits]

“In every country and in every age, the priest has been hostile to liberty. He is always in alliance with the despot, abetting his abuses in return for protection to his own. It is error alone that needs the support of government. Truth can stand by itself.” ~Founding Father Thomas Jefferson, in a letter to Horatio Spofford, 1814

[@susanyeadon6657]

Hence the separation of church and state

[@Stikibits]

@@susanyeadon6657 “Strongly guarded, as is the separation between Religion and Government in the Constitution of the United States, the danger of encroachment by Ecclesiastical Bodies, may be illustrated by precedents already furnished in their short history.” ~James Madison; Monopolies, Perpetuities, Corporations, Ecclesiastical Endowments

[@TheKenShain]

That's what's great about America; freedom of choice! We have so many varieties of fascism to choose from!

[@joshsilva6450]

hahaha... irony, right?

[@RoxanaAlfaro-mf4xj]

Fascinante!

[@sanatanababaji2809]

Jesus Christ 2024

[@joshhrst]

I'll take the Jesus Fash over the Homo Fash any day.

[@montrelouisebohon-harris7023]

😀😀😀 your response is epic and you're totally right...IF DONALD TRUMP WERE FASCIST THEN WHY WAS THE FBI SPYING ON HIM WHEN HE WAS PRESIDENT LIVING IN THE WHITE HOUSE??? THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF IS TECHNICALLY THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF OF THE MILITARY AND INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY.. DON'T TELL OUR INTELLIGENCE COMMUNITY THAT BECAUSE THEY GO ROGUE AND DO WHATEVER THEY WANT AND THEY DO WHATEVER THE LEFTIST ADMINISTRATION TELLS THEM TO & MANY OF THEM DID THE SAME FOR GEORGE BUSH AFTER SEPTEMBER 11TH OR

[@africkinamerican]

This is how fascists label others for persecution.

[@binnahgondwe5158]

America is semi-fascist. Trump as a political idea is just pushing it to full. Trump as a person is an opportunist.

[@au7-721]

Exactly.

[@binnahgondwe5158]

The most uncomfortable symptom and not the systemic illness.

[@FlipJoy-Demo]

Damn! You nailed it.

[@larrote6467]

newsflash! all the western world is fascist, because all the western world is corporativist (no the same as corporatocracy or cronyism) learn your definitions, fascism isn't about clsoed borders, it's about sectoring the economy by "guilds" and letting the businesses dictate public policy. All of those people in florida that wanted disney to step in and protect trans rights? yeah they are fascists, because they believe that businesses should dictate public policy.

[@blairmcian]

Amazingly, Lindsey Graham is asserting that Trump's choices of words and phrases, such as "poisoning the blood of America," don't matter, that there's some underlying idea which is okay (like "we don't have sufficient control of our borders") and that's all that Trump's rhetoric conveys to people who understand him. That's a very dangerous notion, Lindsey.

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

Its fact....but you wouldn't know a fact if you think this video is anything other than propaganda.

[@jdcjr50]

Like war, fascism is downstream from greed. Thank you.

[@terrific804]

So succinct😂😂😂😂😂.. and who are the richest people in which party??? Democrats...look it up!

[@brianjacob8728]

@@terrific804 We have 2 right wing parties. The political left died with the assassinations in the 60s. That's why they were carried out.

[@terrific804]

@@brianjacob8728 try to tell that to those who voted for Biden

[@brianjacob8728]

@@terrific804 Biden is right wing. His political career was backed by the credit card industry, in particular Chase (Rockefeller owned). Has Biden gotten us out of any of these bogus wars? No. Taken on the banks? No. There is nothing left wing about the man and never has been.

[@Anarchy-Is-Liberty]

@@terrific804 try to tell that to those who voted! There, fixed it for ya!

[@MCJSA]

"Fascism's big lie is inevitability". Thanks. That's really useful. It reminds me of Thatcher preaching neoliberalism saying, "There is no alternative". There is and there was.

[@AtheistEve]

And there will be.

[@kimocoloma4123]

It's unsustainable beliefs sooner than later people will realize it's just fear mongering, like threat to democracy. ULTRA MAGA, RIGHT EXTREMISTS for anyone to believes that half the country 75 million. IT'S NONENSE.

[@jamesgravil9162]

For thousands of years, people thought there was no alternative to slavery. People who lived under feudalism also thought it was the only way of doing things and accepted it as natural and God-given. Like every system of governance that came before it, capitalism will eventually collapse under the weight of its internal contradictions. The concentration of wealth into fewer and fewer hands at the expense of everyone else, leading to increasing levels of social instability, can't go on indefinitely. Just ask the French and the Russians.

[@MCJSA]

@@jamesgravil9162 Chomsky points this out as well using these same examples.

[@jamesgravil9162]

@@MCJSA So did Marx, I believe.

[@casard5235]

Fight the good fight. No to fascism!!

[@timdykes6675]

Greed is the father of all discrimination in every form You cannot lie your way to the truth You cannot steal your way to prosperity You cannot isolate your way to freedom You cannot kill your way to piece Fear of personal loss, is the mother of all fear

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

No that's like saying that ice cream causes suicide....really bad fallacious thinking.

[@Samhain606]

As long as there are two sides to keep everyone divided, thats all that matters. The details that people dive so deeply into are meaningless. Must hate other side at all costs

[@reclusidor4442]

Thats the truth. Pure and simple.

[@gatormcklusky5850]

this is the Unity Joe promised American's, Remember he ran on unity. they must have changed the meaning of unity while i wasn't looking.

[@goldwhitedragon]

There's no love without hate.

[@patrickkirwan3353]

Bang on man!

[@fishlips54]

"I maintain nonetheless, that with sufficient enlightenment, one can give substance to any distinction. North WITHOUT south; pleasure WITHOUT pain; mind WITHOUT body. Remember, enlightenment is a function of will power and NOT of physical strength" - Chairman Yang. @@goldwhitedragon

[@Dan-hg7db]

The level of insanity in this video is simply astounding. It’s like a parallel universe.

[@djbabbotstown]

It’s bizarre. Trump is the only think holding it back. It just shows you. The left have been played like a fiddle. Which is why I abandoned it an embraced anti-war populism. Left or right

[@jaustin777]

It's descriptive of MAGA call and response. This is why the Cambridge Analytica program for targeting neurosis was able to weaponize the FB profile data worked so well. Directed disinformation was aimed at specific influencers based on their psychodynamics. Stanford had already verified the predictive accuracy of the data. Pinpoint marketing similar types with targeted messages worked exceptionally well.

[@glennleatherwood4552]

Have you not seen a BLM riot or antifa riots? Dozens are killed and millions in property burned and destroyed. I've never heard of people dying at a Trump rally ( except a trump supporter). BLM burned down a church on Capitol grounds. Antifa took over several city blocks for weeks. People killed, rapes and who knows what else but the media says nothing about it. That's the true insanity

[@JaysSavvy]

@@jaustin777 All that word vomit to project your subservience to multi-billion dollar media corporations onto those who DO NOT bend to the will of Media Propaganda?

[@gerrywood3584]

Try too trump trump lol

[@loisduran5878]

Hedges has long been top of my list of favorites

[@joesutherland225]

It was steered towards facism since 1949 plus the longer a country is at war the stronger facism becomes so....

[@brucemarmy8500]

Right wing install Truman on FDR's last administration to control the dynasty. Henry Wallace was VP from 1940-44 and the motivating force for progressive changes made by FDR. The DNC prevented his nomination for re-election in'44. Put in a pencil pusher (push over) Harry Truman for the VP in '44. Truman wasn't even told about the Manhattan project until FDR died! DNC rigs most elections.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

And Trump started no new wars - & that is why the Oligarchy of war profiteering billionaires and their stooges in the Political Establishment hate him : Trump threatens their war profiteering.

[@maxheadrom3088]

Deep State is a clearly defined term created by former Congress Staffer Mike Lofgren. It's not a cuckoo idea - Chalmers Johnson explains part of it in the Why We Fight documentary. Richard Hofstadter wrote a book in the early 1960s called "The Paranoid Style in American Politics". Very interesting guest and interview, Mr. Hedges!

[@yuuka926]

To understand the deep state watch the old British tv show "Yes Minister" and how the British civil service really runs the country.

[@midwestyoes]

And let's be real, there has been more left leaning journalists and activists pointing it out for decades. The cia and Intel community have been doing unconstitutional acts of spying and making moves favorable to the establishment uniparty interest.

[@charleybarley914]

the problem is that term has been coopted. Trump Maga and rightwing media who sceam it towards any real or imaginary thing arent talking about anything Chalmers Johnson or Hofstadere were talking about. the Dismantle the Deep State bumper sticker crowd are talking about something else, much of it paraniod. And they are so eager to establish a federal government they can finally own, and the non-billionares filling Trump rallys, clicking on Fox or worse and going on about the Deep State are happy to let em have it as long as they get to use part of that power to finally get rid of everyone who doesnt look like them, or at bare minimum put em back in their place like it used to be.

[@pjpredhomme7699]

True it has been bandied about for decades - the difference being - the actual deep state that they were referring to are exactly who the maga apartachiks are. The deep state that Trump is referring to is the civil servants that are trying to adhere to the law . Just another case of their ongoing projection .

[@crashnreset6987]

Even educated people struggle to realize what the word "fascism" means

[@criticality2056]

Maybe they don't care, they just like the label no matter what.

[@williamhutton2126]

But smart people have no such struggle.

[@hugh261]

The greater concern is the totalitarian power dynamic. They all are opposed to that.

[@jeffbradley876]

Facism meaningv( if you don't do what the people in charge want you get punished)

[@crforfreedom7407]

@@criticality2056 They always are what they accuse their competition of being. It's like talking about one's own self, using a replacement descriptor.

[@Onward1969]

This is one of the best conversations I’ve listened to on psychology on Trumpism. I just watched someone else talk about why the Christians evangelicals support this turd of a man. I’ve read too much history to not take this very seriously. These same conversations were happening in Germany in early 1930’s.

[@logician3641]

Tens of thousands of Islamic Jihadists from the middle East and thousands of chinese soldiers have been let into the US via the Southern border by you Democrat President. Soon you and all future generations will look back on the time Trump was president as the last golden era of America.

[@OutdoorLonghair]

​@@logician3641😂😂😂

[@elbertperez2929]

You just used an ad hominem argument when you called a human being a turd. That was also done by the Nazis in the 1930s.

[@LogicalLighting]

Why do you believe him? I say because TDS is mind virus.

[@user-uy7ff6zz5q]

Could it be TDS? it's real ...

[@user-lc4qe4gr7k]

Having read Sharlet's book, The Family, opened my eyes.

[@rcjdeanna5282]

It didn't need to open my eyes but it confirmed what I already felt.

[@Itainttrickingifugotit]

Fascism is a political ideology that emerged in the early 20th century and is characterized by dictatorial power, extreme nationalism, suppression of political dissent, and strong control over the economy and society. Fascist regimes often promote authoritarian leadership, a single-party system, and the glorification of the nation or race. It's important to note that fascism is widely considered to be an oppressive and dangerous ideology due to its disregard for human rights, its tendency toward violence and aggression, and its promotion of discrimination and exclusion. Fascist regimes in the past, such as those led by Adolf Hitler in Germany and Benito Mussolini in Italy, have caused immense suffering and devastation. It is crucial to remain vigilant and protect the values of democracy, equality, and individual freedoms to prevent the rise of fascism or any other authoritarian ideology.

[@mickimicki5576]

By your definition the Democratic party is by far the more fascist political force in the US. Their goal is single party rule, merging of corporation and government, suppression of dissent, censorship and surveillance of the public. I don't see Trump or the Republican party doing any of those things.

[@ilovethe80s71]

What a great succint summary. I'd copy this and send it to others if I could.

[@markrieck6204]

A community service. Great example of citizenship

[@markrieck6204]

I've floated the idea of including some basic civics/government/American history education within basic training of our armed forces. Today's political environment has revealed weaknesses in American democracy. When it comes to patriotism, it's a whole lot more than loving your country and waving a flag. Patriotism indicates willingness to protect and defend the Constitution from all enemies, foreign and domestic. When we're unsure about the Constitution and when it calls on us to defend it, you might not be sure as to when, where, and why. Especially things like domestic threats to the Constitution. He lied, then people died. He lost, then he lied, then people died. That's very easy to understand

[@MeatPuppet1962]

You just described democrats in your comment.

[@ivantuma7969]

33:59 ... I think there's a subconscious fear of - "they're gonna do it to us, because we did it to them" (or a more likely case now "because they've been taught that we did it to them").

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

Yeah that's what the left does every day when they suppress free speech and freedom.

[@Paradoxisthefingerprintofgod]

We need REAL DEMOCRACY.

[@mikemcglauflin8985]

Government isn't the solution to problems. I would prefer self sufficiency any day.

[@user-Kova15]

No we dont or everything would get worse. The inventors of democracy quickly learned it lead to disaster

[@ritabutler1951]

I have often thought that if you disregard what Trump says, but listen to the rhythm and pauses, he sounds like a comedian delivering his lines. I think that is part of his appeal, his dark humor.

[@Burl-tw1yu]

Yup..he's a walking bad joke

[@AnthonyOMulligan-yv9cg]

He's definitely a carnival barker

[@jefryt67]

It's easy to see Trump doing all these things but it's impossible to not notice both parties doing the same thing.

[@douglashoward9616]

And the fascist fasces on the wall of the house of representatives since 1948. Makes them late to notice both parties are corporate fascists.

[@hurkamur1]

Yeah, i don't see a mass violent fundamentalist fantasy coming anywhere out of anyone considered a democrat or "the left".

[@user-vv2yr9ln9m]

You told the truth 💯💯💯

[@celticsunise4ever]

The divisive distracting theater on "both sides" has become more glaringly obvious in recent decades. Perhaps they'll throw Don the con under the bus, but in the meantime, he's playing his role quite well.

[@jefryt67]

@@celticsunise4ever absolutely. The perfect villain

[@thomasberrey3774]

When fascism comes to America it will appear as a cross draped in a flag

[@Activemeasures2023]

That's a good looking flag tbh. Maybe drop the 50 stars on the corner and just keep the red and white stipes. And have an Order of Christ cross in blue.

[@Activemeasures2023]

But the Cross is centred on the flag. Not in the corner. Signifies that the knights templar, the Christian crucade and the order of Christ comes before the country. Dissolves the 50 states/stars for a unified blue sky (cos space is fake). Through God, we can make heaven here on earth.

[@theunknowncommenter725]

NO. It actually has come in the colors of the rainbow 🏳‍🌈 The Cross ☦ has uplifted and unified nations. That can only be a good thing.

[@thomasberrey3774]

wrong, religion has done way more damage and death than good, BTW the confederate flag is a cross (St Andrew's) and last I heard the cross bearing traitors were responsible for death,torture and the subjugation of a brilliant, beautiful people. evil? you decide!

[@Activemeasures2023]

@theunknowncommenter725 interesting idea. The problem is to change the stripes to rainbow you'd have to ignore any history and heritage. I don't know how flags are chosen. In Australia we had a vote much like an "Australian Idol".

[@Bob132-ov6wk]

I can't find it. I think back in the '70's there was a movie made, based on a true story, of a teacher demonstrating to his students that even today people can be lured into fascism. I can't remember the name of the movie. It was very controversial. In the end the teacher showed this leader. It was a portrait of Hitler. The students were shocked and learned a valuable lesson. The teacher was getting flack and criticism from the school board and parents to stop doing this lesson. This teacher pleaded with the school board and parents for patience that he was trying to teach a lesson. It was an incredible movie.

[@MaidenUtah1]

I saw it too. It’s called “The Wave”.

[@edwardmiessner6502]

If Trump gets in in 24/25, how do people fight fascism? Even during the month of police riots in Portland, Antifa was this small ragtag group of individuals who were more into self defense and defense of peaceful protestors than anything. And they closest they came to violence during those police riots and the protests that each preceded each of them was vandalism and setting street fires. Yet law enforcement came down on them and the protestors HARD. At least in the Weimar Republic there were swarms of leftist, antifascist street fighters who were the equal of the brownshirts. Yet after Hitler gained power all but the Nazis were purged and the rest was history. So are people here are just going to sit around and let the Nat-C's round everyone up that they don't like???

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

You do realize the antifascists are only on the right? The terrorists who you called peaceful protestors destroyed more property than we've seen in a long time. Please get a clue.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

"vandalism and setting street fires" - just that little exception eh?

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

If Trump was HItler there would have been no 2020 election and you would be in a political re education camp or worse. You Dems in the USA are working yourselves into sheer lunacy.

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

There are few nat cs in the US. The only on rounding up people and repressing speech and freedom is the left. These are called facts.

[@MMartin-pt9yv]

"The Profits of Religion" by Upton Sinclair was written in 1917

[@roberthill799]

And Elmer Gantry was written by Sinclair Lewis a few years later but it's largely ignored by high school curriculum planners because they are too chicken shit to challenge the Christian right.

[@bilcoferentine3567]

This is sickening like the rest of the corruption.

[@joca6282]

Never trust a preacher that tells you how to vote and never trust a politician that tells you how to pray.

[@CharlotteFerrariBreton]

Lack of quality education, ignorance and despair in difficult times are what is turning America into such a cesspool.

[@TruthHurtsbtheals100]

You’d be so wrong if you weren’t so right ma’am. In this age of information,ignorance is a choice.

[@emead528]

Oh you mean dtrump

[@theunknowncommenter725]

@@emead528 No, that would be the democrats and the Rainbow Mafia.

[@nancychandler3673]

Absolutely 💯 That's what we are seeing 👀.

[@user-Kova15]

I say it’s the hedonism, individualistic and self serving culture, greed and corruption

[@samnangthim6949]

When he thought people were out to get him it seem he was right.

[@vallynne2833]

Did he commit these crimes or not?

[@_.-266]

No he didn't commit these crimes. It's biden who committed multiple crimes !

[@Rox1SMF]

​@@_.-266Yet, try as hard as they might, not one iota of admissible evidence for Joe Biden's alleged "crimes." Versus Trump's indictments for 91 counts 🤔

[@olliemck60]

Yes, crooks are usually paranoid, and for good reason!

[@agayactornamedmichaeldougl6289]

​@@vallynne2833he did not, it's all made up to destroy you and me. Simple as that. You'll find out sooner or later.

[@Scarhandz]

"THE TYRANNY OF IRONY" the title of my book describing my 40 years continuously striving towards, yet stepping on rakes in my futile pursuit of truth. the current admin grossly abused its power by continuing the program Julian Assange and Snowden warned about and these two are happy to continue that framework without seeing, that's actually fascism in practice. When it goes how you want it to, no problem. Honestly, the truth has slowly become a moving target on the left and i find it harder and harder to agree with the cause, despite not being religious and a lifelong fan of science. Politics is a cesspool and those that take sides are playing the game "they" want to be played. We are monkeys with cash and the coffers flow when divided, and make no mistake, thats two capitalists right there on camera. Luxuriating in their own hypocrisy.

[@subterrainia]

Where is the book available?

[@nataliewilliams9741]

You've described my current feelings about our entire system to a tee!

[@Johnconno]

​@@subterrainiaAll good bookshops. 🐐

[@Scarhandz]

@@nataliewilliams9741 I appreciate the kind words Natalie, its nice to know that i'm not that crazy, (even if I wish I worded it better and i wasn't so impulsive, ha). I'd like to think there are many more like us when the time comes to make the difference, if not.. I will gladly settle for people like yourself that have a fairly accurate BS radar.. mine has no batteries and still went off listening to everything they were and weren't saying lol. I wish you a great day, and I'd just like to say, that you have made mine. Thanks.

[@samnangthim6949]

Chris Hedges has become a multimillionaire by criticizing capitalism., Net worth approx. 5 million. Doesn't make him less inciteful only a little less credible.

[@steveslaughter4600]

That was an excellent conversation. Thank you for that.

[@Susan-fs5qs]

that is bull wake up this is part of the great divide and conqur, In case you have not noticed we are peacefull these people preach hate yhou think that is a good thing use your critical thinking just what they are saying is all wrong open your mind do some research seek the truth on this hatred group of people anyhone who tries to divide are not nice people its that simple because you think differently then I do I don't dislike you at all we are all here to help each other understand things more clearly

[@lindaflesch7303]

NOW in March 2024, hes using his new term "Migrant Crime" to imply that this is a huge wave coming to "your" home town.

[@jeffmilum9001]

The "Snake" was NOT about immigrants. It was a blunt reference to Hillary Clinton. I was there when he used it.

[@agayactornamedmichaeldougl6289]

Works just as well for immigrants at this point though...

[@jeffmilum9001]

@@agayactornamedmichaeldougl6289 No offense, but why add the "gay" to your moniker?

[@NYShepherdGirl]

Exactly!!!

[@agayactornamedmichaeldougl6289]

@@jeffmilum9001 because it's funny, that's why.

[@LabelsAreMeaningless]

The 'animals' was also about the M-13 gang members and not about immigrants.

[@willieduffie4967]

We are living in very "dangerous times"......and we need more "grown ups" in charge.....before things gets truly out of hand.

[@truetech4158]

That implies voting for an atheist next instead of the sociopathic church mafia.

[@johnnybutler523]

“Before” ! where the hell are you living? Under a rock?

[@marley812]

Too late

[@vincentvangogh8092]

same in the UK with new truth legislation being pushed by sunak, they are trying to be the deciders of what is the truth. UK high court said that Rwanda is not a safe country to send asylum seekers to so Sunak has legislation that will make that untrue

[@michaeldpa1333]

Vote BLUE

[@johnmars5282]

As non American this was very enlightening. Especialy when Jeff Sharlet connected it with the charismatic white rightwing preacher, it makes perfect sociological sense.

[@anak.-ix5zg]

Oh, really? 😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@WayneLeng]

America is done! We've seen that coming for the last several years, but now it's a lot closer than most people realize. It ain't going to be a fun time in America any more.

[@aviyahcrow6617]

Yes, basically since Obama stated this is the "change we need" fascist Antifa & BLM😂

[@carlol4649]

Everyone must realize that his verbal commitment will get someone seriously injured or killed if this allowed to continue! The courts must address this issue before something very serious happens not after! This must be addressed ASAP!

[@truetech4158]

Publicly verbalize the fact that culty mafia themed violence never really produces afterlives.

[@dawnimatrix]

Unfortunately, I believe it’s going to happen. (Someone getting hurt). Almost like they’re waiting for that before they do anything about it. 😢

[@truetech4158]

@@dawnimatrix Reminds me of when i went to the cop shop to tell em about some sociopathic gunfreak 5 miles away that told me he buried a body in his backyard then smiled and nodded at me as we unloaded drywall sheets off his trailer for a free installation in his rental home. You'd think the cops would be interested in following up on that sort of thing, but apparently no. The cop at the front desk chose to call me odd rather than the creeper with the gun collection. I ended up walking out realizing that its alot like what you wrote, almost like they wait for violence before they do anything about it, as if i would have to go missing in the night just so a investigation maybe would even begin. Please be safe, violence never really produces afterlives no matter what smiley sociopaths say.

[@dawnimatrix]

@@truetech4158 Wow. Just… wow

[@zufalllx]

@@truetech4158 Yeah, the law is funny. Crazy how there has to be a crime before the cops can do anything. 🙄

[@theairevolution2430]

Absolutely correct about global fascism. What's missing in the discussion completely is the role of corporatism and the concentration of wealth. TOTALLY missing the economic control issues!

[@DystopianUtopia8]

Of course that's the whole reason to divide and conquer. It ensures the billionaires continued control.

[@knobtata836]

There can only be one and undeniable answer to this: It’s because WHAT the power IS and it hides it’s names! And that’s whose interests this discussion serves.

[@maloxi1472]

@@DystopianUtopia8 The fact that you call them "the billionaires" shows that you've already fallen for their trap

[@maloxi1472]

@@knobtata836 Calling that power "the billionaires" is the shortest way to failure in that endeavor

[@umalaurenbowman7276]

That's because the writer was very clear that the topic is "staying close to the ground", meaning putting the focus on ordinary people that are Trump followers, what makes them tick. The topic isn't corporatism or macro-economics, that would be a whole other book.

[@steveconly4811]

Thank you Chris for your work!

[@eddybrevet6816]

From whench has all this ill will, physic illness, wtever, fester, some will claim good intentions

[@judysoderlund7680]

Wow! This has been very eye opening for me. I hear the word fascism associated with Trump, but I didn’t realize how insidiously he’s indoctrinating his followers and just how twisted his thinking is! Thank you for an amazing education this morning!

[@aviyahcrow6617]

Fascists Obama(UN member) started & finances in Antifa & BLM SEEMS "the change we need" 😂l😂😂😂😂

[@menudobucket9837]

.. our ANEMIC democracy? I’d say that description borders on the verge of being an understatement.. 😂

[@jimmyjones8676]

The only signs of life at this point are the maggots.

[@PearlOfTheQuarter23]

It’s fascinating that he told them that he would manipulate them and their ignorance and they willingly bend to him

[@mr-iz8cx]

He is playing the heel. Some people love that

[@wavydavy9816]

Stupid people do not like to think for themselves. As long as you're going to somehow alleviate the mental duress they feel from coping with modern life and all it's facets on a daily basis then you can call them what the fudge you like.

[@beanogas63]

They will regret their ignorant ways in the long run.

[@ronnierowe1312]

That sounds like you Dingy Davy!😮

[@ronnierowe1312]

​@@beanogas63No no no! You are the IGNORANT one! Big time!😮

[@barriewright2857]

What everyone doesn't talk about is the outside reaction if they USA becomes a fascist state. They Europeans would panic and watch very closely, because they know what will happen. I don't think that the Europeans would be able to avoid getting involved . But it's hypothetical and hopefully they USA doesn't go down that path that they World has seen already.

[@MeatPuppet1962]

Democracy relies on large groups,I favor being an individual separate from the herd.😊

[@Thesamurai1999]

And what do you mean by that? The purpose of democracy is to make sure at least some power resides within the people. Take that away and the people as a whole is the loser regardless of what you support. No leader is perfect, and what do you when you disagree with the guy you support? What do you do when he dies? You’ve lost all sense of power and control. When trump is dead you have no idea who’ll take over as you may have surrendered that aspect of democracy. Problem with trump is not his policies but rather how he actively tried to disregard the election results. Constantly saying elections are stolen from him something he has done since 2015.

[@Gopherhuckyourself]

​@@Thesamurai1999the illusion of choice has got you fooled

[@Thesamurai1999]

@@Gopherhuckyourself The Illusion of choice is better than nothing. Once we accept full on authoritarianism the people are the ones who lose. The US is a flawed democracy compared to other democratic nations just because it sucks doesn’t mean we should dismantle it, but instead build up on it, make a better foundation.

[@Kid_Ikaris]

It's utterly amazing how explicit Jesus was about money and yet how preachers turn this on its head. It is the most prevalent and unequivocal teaching in the New Testament. Big books that people don't read are a very dangerous thing.

[@truetech4158]

Or reading about a fictionbook based water walking character, and wanting to pretend that fiction is fact. What defines stockholm syndrome to keep enabling manipulation?

[@Kid_Ikaris]

@@truetech4158 There are enough corroborating accounts to the point that most historians think Jesus was a real person. There's nothing definitive but from the evidence I've seen it's more likely that he was a real person who was deified rather than the whole thing being completely dreamt up. I agree with what you're saying though. One of the reasons I left the faith was because so much emphasis was put on the supernatural stuff. If the history of Christianity consisted of a group of people trying to emulate the message of Christ no one would really have a problem with it. Instead it's so often about brainwashing people and harping on so many things that are either from one vague passage or not even in the fucking book: smoking weed is evil, God hates gay people, the whole going to hell business, etc.

[@rachaelik]

​@@truetech4158When you seriously look at that "love/lust of money" and the unbelievable horror and misery it causes, I don't really care who said it.

[@rcjdeanna5282]

He mentioned money and the evils connected to it more than any other subject....and He connected it to hell with a very graphic depiction of it.

[@roberthill799]

The threat of hell is repeated in both testaments. "Wailing and gnashing of teeth" and other nonsense.

[@-Deena.]

You don't turn a nation fascist, you simply unleash, facilitate and legitimise existing fascists.

[@KevinBullard]

Lotsa deep thinkers on here tonight

[@kaygrace5250]

You sound like you been binge watching CNN to much.

[@-Deena.]

@@kaygrace5250 What does 'to much' mean? Is 'much' a verb? What about 'you been' as well'? I know it's a lot for you to cope with. When you understand grammar, syntax and spelling, do let me know.

[@JB-tr6nu]

You just described how too turn a nation fascist

[@-Deena.]

@@JB-tr6nu No. How to open the gates, not how to change views.

[@AfroHairScience]

Powerful interview. 😍✌🏾️ I knew the lazy journalists were not covering those rallies properly. This is why we're on this KZbin channel. Carter G. Woodson wrote a powerful book titled, The Miseducation of the Negro. Perhaps Mr. Sharlet should write a book on the Miseducation of the Caucasian. This interview draws on parallels from this interview about his book. It's the indoctrination versus education scenario. Indoctrination is the cause of so much of what is happening, has happened, and will happen in the United States. This anti-education of American history is dismantling the goals of why those European left the Aristocracy. They didn't want to a ruler. I could go on for days. There is infinite potential for goodness here in U.S. as it relates to democracy, but the citizens can't see the forest for the trees. If Americans don't get it together, tyranny is the result. 😔

[@irockluculent961]

Chris Hedges' interview of Jeff Sharlet gave me powerfully fresh insight into the evolution of Trump's success with the Christian far right using his one talent, cultivating an adoring audience, through the sequence of Prosperity Gospel> Gnostic Gospel> and for the 2024 campaign: Age of Martyrs. Political theater is powerful.

[@mypersonalaccount1001]

When examining the global landscape and the ominous rise of totalitarianism in various nations, whether they be classified as first or fifth world, it is striking to note the unsettling parallels. One of the most disconcerting trends is the deliberate use of incendiary rhetoric, fostering division and animosity among citizens. In some instances, this rhetoric targets wealthy individuals, portraying them as malevolent figures, or labels progress itself as the adversary. Totalitarian leaders often employ this divisive language to obscure their own authoritarian agendas, cynically accusing their political opponents of harboring such intentions. Furthermore, these totalitarian regimes often display a flagrant disregard for the rule of law, sometimes even mocking it openly. This attitude sends a dangerous message to their followers, effectively granting them a blank check to flout established rules and norms at their own discretion. This erosion of respect for the law not only undermines the foundations of a just society but also contributes to an environment where individuals may act with impunity, further deepening the crisis. Another distressing characteristic is blatant hypocrisy and deception, regardless of the undeniable evidence before our eyes. Totalitarian regimes frequently compel individuals,who once believed in the promise of positive change within the system, to (leave) public service, after witnessing firsthand the underlying totalitarian ambitions of sub-leaders within the government. These regimes often resort to denigrating and vilifying those who dare to criticize their authority, disregarding moral values, and resorting to name-calling and character denigration. The casual manipulation of facts during public speeches further erodes trust in information dissemination. Another alarming facet is the systematic demonization of media outlets that dare to scrutinize their leadership, effectively silencing dissenting voices and fueling hatred within the leader's followers. Simultaneously, there is a propensity to idealize and establish alliances, whether political or not, with foreign totalitarian regimes, thus undermining the principles of democracy and human rights. The scourge of corruption within these regimes is particularly brazen and unapologetic. Anyone who exposes or opposes this corruption is often labeled an enemy of the people. Equally concerning is the deliberate manipulation of constitutional reforms to perpetuate the leader's political ideology, effectively subverting democratic principles. History has shown that these patterns tend to repeat themselves. It is our responsibility to educate those unfamiliar with totalitarianism, its manifestations, and the intricacies of global politics in a clear and unambiguous manner. Failure to do so may lead us down the same dark path as countries that never believed such a fate could befall them. Vigilance, awareness, and informed citizenship are essential safeguards against the encroachment of totalitarianism on our democratic values and institutions; be active, be proactive, don’t take things for granted. It can happen, we are not immune to this reality.

[@kimberlybradshaw128]

That's exactly how a democracy becomes a fascist society. Both sides are able to use the same techniques for their own purposes.

[@robcaraher3113]

This seems as though it was AI generated.

[@mypersonalaccount1001]

@@robcaraher3113 no. I came from Vzla

[@art-hx6hq]

So this channel and its guests are scrutinized by both far left and far right, but main focus is on right misdemeanors when left literally acts as thought police by cancelling people or banning them for the reason they need to figure out themselves.

[@mypersonalaccount1001]

@@robcaraher3113 Wrong. I just lived in Venezuela. No need to have an AI to see the similarities!

[@Reason-fg4ik]

My parents used to say, "Remember, when you point your finger in accusation you have three fingers pointing back at yourself."

[@maddyc2412]

Every conservative accusation is a confession

[@Reason-fg4ik]

@@maddyc2412 True, but only when reading 1984.

[@williamhutton2126]

@@Reason-fg4ik They've never read 1984. That takes a higher reading level than sixth grade.

[@expediteovernight8674]

Well that is a dumb thing to say. If I point to a f250 does that make me an f250? I've got 3 pointing back at me. See... that's why it's a dumb thing to say. You should put them in a retirement home.

[@crforfreedom7407]

@@williamhutton2126 'they' don't want people to read 1984; it gives their playbook away.

[@llabreell]

Wow.. this guy has the clearest insights into maga out of any other talking head/academic/analyst I've ever heard/seen anywhere.. suddenly, it all makes perfect sense.. Fascinating..

[@johnlaudenslager706]

In the 1980s I got assigned to my Army unit in Germany and was surprised to find virtually no hint of Nazi personality types in the many Germans I got to know. But of course they were there. It reinforced my suspicion that our culture, too, might contain substantial authoritarian white Christian nationalist types. Since then I saw KZbin vids showing US Nazi rallies in the 1930s, and now we have so many militias. Thank God Trump has no military experience like Hitler and Mussolini, but Lenin and Stalin didn't have military experience and it didn't save Russia. I agree Trump AND HIS FOLLOWERS are dangerous. Nice job analyzing Trump and his followers 👍👍

[@xs10tl1]

Nothing is as dangerous as a 40T Debt. And that is wholly the fault of fascists who created the conditions that led to Trump.

[@davidhassall8000]

"There is no final victory, we have to keep fighting the same battles over and over again". Tony Benn.

[@TinaFivesten]

Yes, because most people don't learn from history!

[@davidhassall8000]

@@TinaFivesten Mark Twain?

[@walstib57]

The road to a fascist state is lined with people telling us to get a grip.

[@gtrdxz]

and inevitable. Trump 2024!

[@crystalcleary]

@@gtrdxz Delusional and disgusting. Not if those who believe in democracy VOTE either.

[@nancychandler3673]

Believe the Rhetoric of Christian Nationalism. They have been telling us for years. OB/GYN Dr's are leaving Red States to practice Healthcare now.

[@julianciahaconsulting8663]

You dont think Joe Biden trying to create a "Disinformation Governance Board" isnt fascist or the Biden Administration's unprecedented Censorship? the politically motivated indictments against Trump are totally traits of a fascist government.

[@christopherhughes8402]

20 to 24 years in prison and you know how rapists are treated there.

[@NadaYogi]

The unhinged idiocy of political pundits today is on another level.

[@jaustin777]

This has significant intellectual verification. This is not punditry. This is Social psychology based on hard science about human psychological structure. The facts of this consciousness development assessment of propaganda and political division and psychology was used by Bannon for Robert Mercer through creating the Canadian arm of Cambridge Analytica.

[@happymood888]

Yes words have no meaning anymore because of the corrupt corporate media and Democrats

[@simonssays78]

As a bi racial black man who lives in north Idaho this discussion is 1000% correct! There has always been this undercurrent in the church and on the far right! I grew up knowing it as the John Birch Society republicans always kept it in the closet and I’m telling you now, it has taken over the Republican Party to its detriment and that is bad for America when one party is weaker then the other it leads to extremism. Division and violence!

[@jas1049]

This is not punditry and is certainly not unhinged idiocy. Rather this is insightful and reasoned observation based on facts and an understanding of political and cultural tropes and how they operate to create real effects within society.

[@combinedeffects4799]

Well said

[@mfenaughty]

Trump learned a lot about theater and how to unleash underlying emotions from WWE. He felt the thrill, and saw how people responded to him.

[@Kormac80]

A Constitutional convention is needed. 1. All political campaigns shall be exclusively and entirely funded by the public monies. Any and all private and institutional contributions to political campaigns or PACS are prohibited. 2. The presidential election shall be decided by the total votes of the national electorate, with no exception. The popular vote of the entire nation will determine the winner. States will conduct their own elections, and they will report their total numbers that will be tallied up as a single number for the nation as a single entity. 3. All districts both federal and state must be drawn by independent commissions without partisan favor. 4. The House of Representatives will maintain districts with no more than 500K constituents.

[@rik4369]

We need those Term Limits and Age Limits to serve in the three branches of Government.

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

You had me until you said you wanted to destroy equal representation and our republic with a direct vote. All small states would be screwed....which is exactly why they founders did not do this.

[@carolynlanham3170]

I am 73 now, raised in the military and there have always in my life been threats to our safety and democracy.

[@adnanbosnian5051]

democracy is fake

[@inkblot101]

This one is different though

[@CristyRoberts-lo7pt]

There has NEVER been a President in all of American history, that tried to stop the peaceful transfer of power. And then to continue to create his own reality and believe he’s above the law.

[@xs10tl1]

Name the threats.

[@user-Kova15]

“Muh precious Dumbocracy”

[@jackfox5738]

Absolutely amazing how the actual fascist will call the side who is for freedom, a bunch of fascists. It just goes to show that this book and video only exists to talk to the side who is ignorant of the facts.

[@axil03]

@jackfox5738 Trump lost Accept it

[@dirkscholten168]

​@@axil03TDS much? 😂

[@FOXTROTSKYOMEGA]

Fascism is specifically Rightwing. Look it up.

[@AgentFriday]

It’s defined as fascist, which does nothing to prevent it from being implemented by The Left. Gives them the automatic deniability they so depend on as a crutch, over and over again.

[@Christian___]

@@FOXTROTSKYOMEGA You think the Democrats aren't right wing, or in the pocket of corporations? Trump's the only president in history who left the Oval Office less wealthy than when he entered it. Hunter Biden's reported net worth has increased, from basically zero, by $300 million since his dad became vice president. You are a Turkey voting for Thanksgiving.

[@robertjohnson3555]

He told rich people he was going to give them another tax break and use the poor to achieve that goal

[@aviyahcrow6617]

What Bidens Administration HAS DONE/ IS DOING?🤔

[@gordienj]

Jeff Sharlet explains the tactics of how Trump works a crowd to get them fired up, and synchronized, which I had never seen, and would never have believed, but it explains how Trump gets his support - manipulating the crowd geniously. Normally Trump doesn't seem particularly bright, but a lot brighter than the crowd, apparently. Thank you.

[@aviyahcrow6617]

Seems SAME as BLM/ Antifa & the Biden Administration,?!😂🤔

[@sdafasdfasdfsda]

MAGA is 74 million strong and growing. We're not going anywhere!

[@Number0neSon]

I'll give him credit for being a genius at marketing. He certainly knows how to sell his brand.

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

You confuse patriotism with manipulation. We get the left lacks a basic understanding of reality...but I have to believe you're not this ignorant.

[@dmars7264]

And YOU think you're being better than Trump and his supporters by saying hateful things???

[@hypedude6120]

That description of The Call, The Snake and The bullet as being the substance was eye-opening for me. MAGA are so willing to be duped by this grifter as long as it feeds their feelings of anger and resentment.

[@keithj6251]

Trump's followers have a lot to be angry and resentful about.

[@glendavis1266]

Resent what…..let them explain fully…….not………ya know. Have they been left behind due to their own decisions?

[@9000ck]

And twisted sexuality.

[@sdafasdfasdfsda]

Build that wall!

[@Activemeasures2023]

What Trumpist learned by being in the trades for all their years, while you wasted time at university. Is the system is broken. Investment firms are buying up the property market to create a class of serfs. Trumpists are just getting their bag and moving to the country with their families. Enjoy the hellscape the cities will become.

[@agear2]

Lovely little dialectic going on here: "Accuse your opponent of what you are doing, to create confusion....."

[@awelsh3258]

Exactly what MAGA does ----- right out of the Fascist playbook.

[@agear2]

@@awelsh3258 that’s just rhetoric. Look at the legislation and the behaviors not the rhetoric. When you do that, then the true fascism comes into focus.

[@AnthonyOMulligan-yv9cg]

Disinformation 101

[@paulmoulton7248]

Been a while since I stepped into the bubble. Things haven't changed. 2017 and 2023 appear the same.

[@nikolasb2933]

If society was fair equitable and actually democratic there would no such thing as Trump.

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

lmao....by what reasoning? I'd love the hear the fallacies to back up this one.

[@ipainthouses9591]

"I am being indicted for you," said Pastor Donald. Like a messiah. And the soothing church music plays in the background.

[@marykayryan7891]

Joking/not joking is a classic passive aggressive tactic.

[@christopherhamilton3621]

… and the personality disordered types…

[@FidoHouse]

My first time watching one of your discussions. Very calm, level-headed, and informative. Now a subscriber.

[@robertcarpenter7486]

Wrong

[@mickimicki5576]

Nothing level-headed about this program today. Unless you regard fear-mongering and shamelessly lying about Trump as level-headed behavior.

[@melvinsatterwhitejr575]

All have to do is pay attention. You got a problem with that?

[@wkdewok]

What's your thoughts of removing names from the ballot??

[@jakobgeigelclermont]

If it's illegal for his name to be on the ballot, then it shouldn't be there is my take. The law states that no-one implicated in an insurrection can run for president, and many people understand Jan. 6th as an insurrection, which means Trump can't run for president if the state in question deems Jan 6th as an insurrection. Seems simple enough.@@wkdewok

[@63terrence]

These cult members are just dying to be controlled

[@Loweredexpectationss]

"Never fight until you have to. But when it's time to fight, you fight like you're the third monkey on the ramp to Noah's Ark… and brother, it's startin' to rain."

[@sutnom2427]

That's a fab quote, m'breda

[@TheZenGarden_]

Believe it or not, the seeds of american fascism started in 1492, aka "Inter Caetera."

[@saffronskies333]

Enter Soetero

[@TheZenGarden_]

@@saffronskies333 All the leaders of this country are related to each other and are related to British and French oligarch families. Which means they all have been working for the same people since 1492, einstein!

[@reclusidor4442]

I believe it.

[@reclusidor4442]

​​@@saffronskies333You'll just never forgive his mother, will you? Your impotent rage is a thing to be ridiculed.😊

[@saffronskies333]

@@reclusidor4442 impotent rage??? Too much grand theft auto ....That's a jab for the left ... for you

[@stevenburkhardt1963]

What we are witnessing is Germany in 1929-30 without the economic collapse

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

Yep the left is being fascist...but no worries they're working on orchestrating the collapse right now by printing money and destroying the worth of our money.

[@louisesumrell6331]

I've been thinking about that myself. What happens when a doctor is arrested and put on trial for doing an abortion? I have a feeling that the ensuing uproar would be massive. Maybe bigger than anything we've seen so far.

[@debramitchell653]

Well you won't have to wait long it's happening right know in Texas ken Paxton a Republican is threatening a woman and her doctor or anyone that give her the health care she needs to save her life and any future pregnancy she would like to have due to health problems she is having with her pregnancy right she has now so sad and scary poor woman isn't goig thru enough as it is DESCUSTING

[@rhondah1587]

@@debramitchell653 Unfortunately, no doctor and no hospital in Texas will take the risk of litigation or prosecution. She will have to win in the courts and that's not looking good for her in Texas and with a Supreme Court that overturned Roe, it doesn't look good there either. The only way women will regain any of their rights to bodily autonomy is if the maga Republicans are voted out of office everywhere and thoroughly taught that their brand of ruling by a Bronze Age culture written book of mythology won't be tolerated, that patriarchal rule is dead and that women/girls are fully human and deserve full and equal rights.

[@rcjdeanna5282]

The Catholic church before 1973 was much more realistic and understanding about the need for abortion under great duress, incest, Rubella and other conditions that harm the fetus. Nobody ever talks about that!! Nor do they know that in moral theology the responsibility falls most not on the mother, but on the family and father and even culture that FAILS IN LOVE. Please spread this around. It may comfort some.

[@rhondah1587]

@@rcjdeanna5282 The Republican politicians actually sat around a table and made up the whole issue of abortion to use as a social wedge issue to get people to vote for them against their own best economic interests which is what Democrats were working toward, a more fair playing field for everyone. Republicans had to almost force the Southern Baptist Convention people to go along with their abortion issue because they really didn't care about it at all. IMHO I just wish more people knew the hard facts behind it all and that Republicans have a habit of looking for whatever they can to create some boogey man to use to scare the gullible (particularly the religious) into voting for them instead of looking out for their economic interests which the Democrats provide. Today, they've invented the boogey man of Drag Queens, LGBTQ+ rights, racism and poor immigrants. They collectively call any concern for any type of social injustice attention as Woke. It's insane people keep falling for that stuff.

[@aviyahcrow6617]

Or, bus drivers being arrested for bringing illegal immigrants into fascist NYC?🤔While they cross the borderless border from another country?!😂

[@exxzxxe]

"Fascism will come to America wrapped in a flag carrying a bible." Sinclair Lewis.

[@paulsnow]

We will have Facism in this country, and we'll call it Anti-Facism -- maybe Huey Long? We have no reason to believe Lewis is the source of your quote. Neither quote is absolutely certain. Regardless of how well Trump does theater, Trump doesn't control the media, industry. He didn't develop a set of brown shirts. He didn't weaponize the FBI and police. All of this is democratic crap.

[@DystopianUtopia8]

Unfortunately true.

[@douglashoward9616]

Gees the uniparty fascists put their fasces up on the wall of the house of representatives in 1948. Flanking the flag in ancient language of a seized state of submission. And all presidents stand in front of them at every state of the Union to show the world their fasces. But very few see.

[@elviajove8289]

It’s been here for quite some time

[@bobhope5114]

Fascism will come to America by tree huggers in rainbow t-shirts. - George Carlin.

[@patrickvernon4766]

Corporatism in fascism doesn’t refer to private corporations but state corporations or bodies which are unions of employers, employees and state managers. In fascism the state is above economics and private interests is below the national interest.

[@skabuoy]

Except for the top layer in a fascist state. Their private interest goes before the state interest which goes before the private interest of 'commoners'.

[@periguapo]

How much of DJT's rhetoric is actually from provocateurs such as Stephen Miller, Steve Bannon, Roger Stone, etc?

[@nxlevelsicc]

Wow. This guy is batshit crazy. He has spun such a far flung theory. 😂

[@Reason-fg4ik]

Agree, these guys project too much.

[@eddiedavis2273]

What? What are you talking about?

[@LordMalice6d9]

He's a Leftist, what do you expect?

[@hugh261]

Baseless allegation.

[@williamhutton2126]

I'd put money on it that you're subbed to Jordan Peterson, Glenn Beck and Ben Shapiro. I'd bet even more that Joe Rogan and Tim Pool are in there, too.

[@uradragon]

There is in place an American Stasi, the Patriot Act opened the door for such an organization. It is modeled after the East German Stasi and there is no problem finding recruits. A democracy would find little use for such, however an authoritarian regime would find it invaluable for containment and control. There is the added effect of the shredding of trust that helps to break down society. It is in place and has been for some time. 24/7 internet and phone.

[@livingLge]

Your description of Anerican law enforcement's technical abilities is a bit hyperbolic. For one, although the technical means for surveillance are there, law enforcement also must have the authority to use it. So, for instance, just because they can technically use surveillance on a platform like FB to catch someone who may be predisposed to do violence doesn't mean they have the authority to do so. Although the FBI or Homeland Security may have a suspicion about someone's capacity to do violence, it doesn't mean they have the authority to act. Before they can target an individual, they have to have credible evidence of an impending threat. This is almost always through a tip to law enforcement. So, in short, there is no Stasi, but there is a very good technical system. And you are 💯 correct that this can be abused by an authoritarian.

[@KevinBullard]

Just look at January 6th and all the government paid agent provocateurs...

[@amberbrandenburg4175]

yes and notice the left is the one using it in that manner? Interesting no?

[@katherinecrossman8521]

I agree with your assessment of where trump has helped lead our country . I question if he has enough intectual ability to really understand what he has encouraged people to exhibit . People seem eager to expose their worst attitudes now . And do so with the greatest glee . As if there is no reason to care about anyone else . Or think for them selves . Just follow along until our country is in a situation we may never come completely back from . Education of history is so necessary. For everyone . NOW . To remind everyone of the truth of the good bad , and ugly of history .

[@robinblick9375]

In a truly secular society, not like the USA which is only so on paper, but say France or Sweden, Trumpism, a religion with a living god, would never get off the ground.

[@bonniebasham2447]

I heard the media report only part of what he said. I took it at face value. After sometime I finally heard all of what he said that day. My jaw dropped open. I know the media is owned. Don't lie to me. Don't manipulate me. There's a reason he's being persecuted.

[@youdontwanttoknow5203]

Truth.

[@twoody79]

Imagine how those of us who were there have felt. Try debating the events of that day when you have photos and videos that are geo tagged and time stamped but look nothing like what is shown by the MSM. Apparently I am not to believe my lying eyes and ears even when they are backed up by my own media. If I wasn’t awake before I definitely am now. It’s all propaganda and it’s coming from every direction. God save our country.

[@challiray]

He's guilty of crimes? And you misspelled "prosecuted".

[@twoody79]

@@challiray I hope you have evidence to back up your claims. If you haven’t figured it out yet he has yet to be indicted for the crimes MSM and the left keep accusing him of. This is solely about keeping him out of the Oval Office. Period, full stop.

[@Darren-yu6hf]

Who side do you f I ght for?

[@michaelkessler3487]

I've been calling the former GOP the F.C.P. or Fascist Christian Party for years because it's exactly who they are.

[@williamhiles7404]

How about the F.C.C.P. Which stands for Fascist Communist Christian Party. Although the Christianity they profess is False. LedHed Pb 207.20 🎶 🎸 🎹

[@VegitoBlue202]

I mena that ideology does exist its called National Bolshevism​@williamhiles7404

[@acmedata]

Watching any of the CPAC speeches, FCP is an appropriate term.

[@michaelkessler3487]

@@williamhiles7404 FASCIST AND COMMUNIST AREN'T THE SAME.

[@williamhiles7404]

Duh. But Dumps followers seem to made up of both. Haha. LedHed Pb 207.20 🎶 🎸 🎹

[@ScruffyIsMyName]

Wow! Just.... wow. The last american video I watched was by a dreadful, terrible, loud-mouthed woman called Nancy Grace and I thought, "Journalism is dead." Then KZbin threw this vid into my algorithm, and it gives me hope that American people still have access to quality information, quality debate, quality journalism. Greetings and good luck from Oz. 🇦🇺 🦘

[@adamblanchard1703]

Both of these authors / journalists have helped me see and understand our country. Thank you for this great conversation.

[@robertadams3925]

How weak or paid for do you have to be to consider populism an existential threat?

[@rosschops9509]

It’s not just populism. Try listening again🤦

[@rosschops9509]

Absolutely. I’ve been watching this christian fascism since Chris Hedges was lecturing. I think that letting the corporations do what they want and dumbing down education kind of sealed the deal for the US. An absolute tragedy.