The article discusses how fascist leaders manipulate public perception of danger to justify ceding individual rights to a central authority, exemplified by Donald Trump. By creating a narrative of existential threats—like “wokeness” and crime—Trump seeks to position himself as the solution, drawing from a fascist playbook that glorifies state violence and authority. This strategy fosters a “mobilizing passion,” where state violence is deemed necessary for survival.
The author critiques Trump’s recent announcement of a federal takeover of Washington DC’s police, claiming it was a response to non-existent crises, despite crime rates being at historic lows. Even in presenting exaggerated threats, Trump continues to disregard factual data, reflecting a troubling trend where truth becomes an inconvenience rather than a priority.
Furthermore, Trump’s expansive view of law enforcement and authoritarian control aligns with fascist principles, relying on fear and misinformation to consolidate power. The author emphasizes the importance of maintaining the truth amidst these manipulations, highlighting that the erosion of truth is a fundamental threat to democracy.
