The United States has been undergoing a shift from its democratic principles towards an autocratic form of governance, commonly referred to as fascism. This short paper seeks to explore fascism not as a government type but as a transformative process leading to an autocracy. A process where the original government structure is retained despite significant changes in function and style.
The impetus for such governmental shifts typically arises from the aspirations of an individual or elite group, seeking absolute control, to gain enhanced power, wealth, and political influence. This desire for change occurs during periods of political and/or economic instability, fueled by events such as war, leadership challenges, economic stress, systemic racism, immigration, religious tensions, fear of change, ultranationalism, and/or a yearning for the nostalgic past. Cult-like groups often coalesce around these issues, advocating for leadership or governmental change through revolution or evolution.
While societal instability may provide fertile ground for change, a comprehensive plan, a strong organization, a charismatic leader, and substantial resources are also necessary. It is at this juncture that fascism emerges as a powerful tool for transforming governance.
The transformation from a citizen-participative model to an autocracy is characterized by incremental, situational, and variable changes that unfold in response to the evolving process. This incremental nature makes defining specific milestones difficult. However, certain events serve as indicators of this ongoing transformation.
While the specifics of each transformation differs, certain common steps can be identified.
For example:
– The influence of organizations like the John Birch Society and the Federalist Society in shaping and directing political change.
– The takeover of the Republican Party by the ultra-right.
– Control of state governments through gerrymandering.
– Restrictions on voting rights via Citizens United and voter suppression tactics.
– The realignment and takeover of the judicial system through right-wing judicial appointments.
– Donald Trump’s potential second presidency as a key leadership component.
– Erosion of personal freedoms, rights, and liberties, such as reproductive rights, access to books, and LGBTQ+ rights.
-and finally, recent statements by Donald Trump outlining his intended actions in a second term illustrate the potential for a complete fascist transformation of the United States.
It is obvious that over several past decades there have been political changes in progress that exhibit a fascistic movement. It has been accelerated by the first Trump presidency and has been stated as a priority in his second presidency. This should be a fair warning to the public. Is the United States prepared to be an autocracy? The choice will be made in the months ahead and on November 5th, 2024.
WILL IT BE DEMOCRACY OR AUTOCRACY?…YOUR VOTE WILL MATTER AND DETERMINE THE FUTURE AND THE FUTURE BEGINS TODAY!
GIL EISNER DOLLARBILLBRIGADE.COM12/7/2023
