Imagine receiving a phone call at home, with a voice screaming, “End your life now so we can save ammunition!” Shortly after, an email arrives, stating, “I hope the Federal government hangs you and your daughter from the Capitol dome, you treasonous piece of shit! I pray that I will be sitting close enough to hear your necks snap.”
This horrifying experience was the reality for “Shaye” Moss and Ruby Freeman, who became targets after Trump and Giuliani falsely accused them of ballot stuffing for Biden in Georgia. Within hours, a mob gathered outside Freeman’s home, armed with torches and threats, causing her to leave, thanks to an FBI warning that she was on a January 6th defendant’s “kill list.”
Mitt Romney, in conversation with writer McKay Coppins for his book “Romney: A Reckoning,” shared stories of Republican senators so frightened of Trump’s violent supporters that they voted against conviction, despite believing Trump tried to blackmail Zelenskyy and overthrow the government.
This climate of fear extends to liberal and mainstream reporters who criticize Biden but fear Trump or his followers may target them. Even judges have avoided taking action against Trump due to the threats and harassment that come with being seen as an “enemy of Trump.”
When the Colorado Supreme Court voted to remove Trump from the ballot, they faced immediate threats. This fear and violence are how fascism takes hold, with violence and the fear of violence serving as its foundation.
Progressive media figures regularly receive threats, while right-wing counterparts do not. This violence is unique to the American right, and it’s time for the media and FBI to acknowledge it.
Emilio Gentile, a fascism expert, noted that fascist movements start with violence. It begins with fear, which leads people to embrace a strongman leader who promises to restore their power, wealth, and authority.
This dynamic is fueled by the belief that the government is corrupt, a narrative promoted by right-wing billionaires, media, and politicians. The constant message is that the government is controlled by a “deep state” out to destroy the nation.
As a result, low-information voters easily align with fascist leaders who promise better days and scapegoat political enemies, minorities, and women. Violence becomes a way to silence dissent and maintain power.
In the face of such threats, individuals and institutions often self-censor or avoid confrontation, further empowering the fascists. Social media platforms have dialed back content moderation, enabling fascists to thrive.
Trump openly intends to use police force against his perceived enemies and has already gained the support of his militia followers, who may intimidate voters in the upcoming election. The silencing of dissent and accountability is underway.
The nation must confront this epidemic of violent rhetoric and actions. While law enforcement plays a role, defeating fascism ultimately relies on voters turning out in overwhelming numbers to reject strongman rule.
Failure is not an option because fascists do not offer second chances. We must wake up to the threat and work together to protect democracy and freedom from authoritarianism.
