Is this the point where the United States falters to fascism?
Fascism is a political system where a government is led by a single authority who controls most aspects of life and suppresses opposition. It often includes extreme nationalism, the belief that one’s nation-state or race is superior, and the use of force or violence to maintain control. In fascist regimes, the government often uses propaganda to manipulate public opinion and maintain power.
The rise of Donald Trump as a central figure in American politics demonstrates how elements of fascist ideology, reflected in several of his views, have permeated mainstream discourse, reshaped the nation’s political landscape, and undermined democratic norms.
Rhetoric and Identity Politics
Trump’s use of “law and order” rhetoric employs the identification and perpetuation of a common enemy. The militarization of law enforcement to control immigration, or more bluntly: attempt to bolster white supremacy and the idea of pure identity, is an element of Trump’s plan and the far-right crusade against individuals who are perceived to interfere with an imaginary “American” identity.
The notion of a “true American”, though quite vague, is the cornerstone of immigration rhetoric. This perpetuation of a singular identity propagates the idea that individuals outside the dominant group should be excluded.
Othering is central to nationalistic rhetoric. The establishment of an acceptable identity is an element of fascism, where other members are deemed the “enemy.” Suppression of dissenting views that counter the dominant narrative and aligns with the fascist ideology.
Misinformation as a Tool for Control
Trump and the far-right ideology tend to perpetuate ideals surrounding the need for nationalism; in particular, the misinformation constructs a narrative that galvanizes the right-wing voting populace. Once the narrative is controlled, it becomes difficult for individuals to access information. Misinformation also works to decrease the legitimacy of factual information. When one person is considered the epitome of information, this teeters into fascism.
Trump misrepresented the implications of tariffs, asserting that they are effective tools for securing favorable trade deals and protecting American workers. In actuality, tariffs often result in increased costs for consumers, disrupt supply chains, and fail to deliver promised economic benefits. This misinformation is compounded by his framing of tariffs as a form of national defense against foreign aggression, which echoes his broader political rhetoric regarding immigration.
Influence of the Trump v. United States (2024) Decision
In Trump v. United States (2024), SCOTUS interpreted the degree to which Trump, and the presidency at large, is immune from prosecution for questionable actions.
SCOTUS determined that Trump’s actions, including interference in a federal election, were deemed to be “official” acts of a President. That is, the President can act to exercise their authority and are immune from prosecution for any “official” actions that are still technically illegal. SCOTUS, however, rendered it clear that “unofficial” acts are not protected.
Since no clear definition was provided, this leads to the risk of unilateral authority, with reduced oversight from the system of checks and balances. Fascism demands unilateral authority and pushing for a fascist agenda function when the chief executive of a nation-state is emboldened to act unilaterally and to suppress opposition. This demonstrates a risk for the development of fascism.
While it may not yet constitute full-fledged fascism, the patterns of behavior and ideology observed in his political discourse serve as a warning. Therefore, Americans need to remain vigilant, uphold democratic values, and resist forces that seek to undermine the foundations of freedom, equality, and justice.
