In his State of the Union address, U.S. President Donald Trump displayed fascist themes but ultimately presented himself as an exhausted leader. While fascism suits him, as it emphasizes a leader who transcends law and promotes grand narratives against chosen enemies, Trump is struggling to transition from competitive authoritarianism to full fascism. His chosen enemy is the “crazy” Democratic Party, which he links to crime and illegal immigration, while his administration’s harsh crackdown on immigrants creates a landscape of fear.
To truly embrace fascism, Trump requires a bloody, victorious war, which he lacks the competence to wage. The only scenarios remaining involve either inaction or a disastrous invasion of Iran, both likely to have negative impacts on his presidency. Trump’s approach is characterized by a desire for both power and profit, reflecting his history of seeking validation through wealth and influence.
Despite Trump’s attempts, there is significant public resistance to fascist ideals, demonstrated by ongoing protests and community resilience. The upcoming elections present challenges, but opponents of authoritarianism have the potential to forge coalitions for a brighter future. The nation stands at a crossroads where returning to normalcy is impossible, but the pursuit of better outcomes remains viable.
