Understanding The Claims Of Fascism In America: A Critical Examination

Warnings about fascism have become quite fashionable. The concern that if former President Donald Trump wins in November America will descend into fascism pervades many leading publications, resides atop numerous bestseller lists, and sits on the tip of many prominent tongues. Yale University professor and author of the bestseller How Fascism Works, Jason Stanley, recently put it this way: "We have a classic fascist situation in this country right now. Trump is a fascist leader who intends to overthrow the country and democracy—and he's very good at it." Leading commentator and former United States Labor Secretary Robert Reich likewise asserted there are "alarming parallels between Nazism and MAGAism" and concluded that "Donald Trump is a fascist."

However, there's a problem with these and other ominous warnings about fascism. They are fundamentally confused. Fascism is a specific form of political system. It has a variety of definitions, but most agree it contains three key elements: extreme nationalism, a dictatorial strongman, and violent suppression of the opposition. Merriam-Webster defines it as "a political philosophy, movement, or regime that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition."

Historically, figures like Adolf Hitler in Germany, Benito Mussolini in Italy, and Francisco Franco in Spain exemplified this kind of fascist strongman. They were dictators who controlled their governments through fear and force, leading to the murder of countless innocent people. If Trump were to win in November, there would undoubtedly be significant problems, primarily stemming from his executive style which could generate international discord and domestic dysfunction. However, labeling it as fascism may be misleading.

For a country to become fascist, its people must fall in line through consent, fear, or force. The American populace exhibits strengths and weaknesses, with many resisting Trump's leadership. Over 100 million citizens, including numerous government officials, do not support him, indicating a fierce opposition should he win again. Ironically, many of those who warn against fascism thrive in America’s free and open press, which is a hallmark of a non-fascist society.

This does not imply that a second Trump presidency would lack elements that resemble fascism. He would likely continue to express views reminiscent of fascist dictators, appeal to white nationalists, and criticize immigrants and elites. He might also attempt to undermine democratic institutions such as the rule of law and the peaceful transfer of power. However, possessing some elements of fascism does not equate to being a fascist regime.

Critics of Trump's rhetoric remind us that words matter. Equating Trump with historical fascist tyrants like Hitler is not only inaccurate but undermines the true nature of such regimes. Understanding the nuances and specificities of political labels is crucial to maintaining clarity in political discourse.

It's essential to remain vigilant about potential risks while recognizing the distinction between risks and fantasies. Mischaracterizing the nature of political threats can leave citizens unprepared and vulnerable. Alexander Hamilton warned of a nebulous and unstable political climate if Trump were to win, emphasizing the importance of understanding the true nature of political dynamics rather than resorting to alarmist rhetoric.

The tumult of another Trump presidency could indeed be perilous. Yet, claiming that fascism is imminent in America oversimplifies the complexities of our political landscape. It's vital for critics and commentators to ground their assertions in reality rather than hyperbole.

William Cooper is the author of How America Works ... And Why It Doesn’t.

The views expressed in this article are the writer's own.