By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Initially hesitant to use the term “fascist” to describe President Trump due to complexities and the overuse of the word, recent events have shifted this perspective. The author now argues that the totality of Trump’s actions, encompassing numerous characteristics like demolition of norms, politicized law enforcement, and leader aggrandizement, point to a distinct drift toward fascism. Despite acknowledging that not all classical elements are present, the author concludes that it is necessary to recognize and name Trump’s governing style as fascist to effectively address the situation.
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Yes, It’s Fascism.
It’s time to call a spade a spade: the MAGA movement, and the political forces behind it, are undeniably fascist. This isn’t a recent development; the signs have been there for years, yet the media and certain political actors have been slow, or unwilling, to acknowledge the obvious. Remember the images of Trump supporters waving Nazi and Confederate flags? The “good people on both sides” rhetoric? These weren’t subtle hints; they were glaring red flags. The constant, and growing, expansion of federal agencies like ICE, and their budget, is another key indicator. This isn’t just about policy disagreements; it’s about the tools of an authoritarian regime taking shape.
The resistance to using the term “fascism” has been baffling. It’s often been fueled by a reluctance to offend or a desire to maintain a veneer of impartiality. Some seem to believe the term can only be applied to specific historical events or rigidly defined ideologies. However, fascism, as a constellation of characteristics, is readily apparent in the current political landscape. When racism is wrapped in a flag, it becomes easier to overlook, to excuse, to ignore.
The media’s belated realization of this reality is infuriating. The Atlantic, and others, are only now catching up, after years of downplaying the threat, or worse, enabling it. This hesitancy to clearly label the situation has aided those who are working to undermine democratic norms and institutions. The constant apologies and excuses for Trump’s actions are no longer acceptable. The time for nuance and hand-wringing is over. Republicans, by endorsing and enabling the movement, have become complicit in the march towards authoritarianism.
The argument that using the term “fascism” is an overreach or a baseless accusation is disingenuous. The core tenets of fascism—nationalism, authoritarianism, suppression of dissent, and the cult of personality—are all present and thriving. The evidence is overwhelming. Ignoring this reality only serves to embolden the forces driving this movement. And if you are still making excuses for fascism, or refusing to condemn it, you are actively siding with tyranny.
It is disheartening, to see the resistance to fascism struggle, even as they speak of the values that they wish to protect. Where are the people who will stand up and fight? Anti-fascism should be patriotic, an effort to preserve democracy against those who wish to see it destroyed. The lack of creativity and resolve from the opposition is almost unbelievable. This is not the time for half-measures or symbolic gestures. It’s time for action. We need to confront the reality of the situation and take decisive steps to protect our democracy.
The fact is, we’ve had a decade to see this coming. The reluctance of the media to call it what it is has been a disservice to the American people. This isn’t about political correctness; it’s about recognizing and responding to a clear and present danger. A clear and present danger to the American Republic. The time for debate is over. The time for action is now.