Kelly: Trump Fits "Fascist" Definition

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Post on Oct 24, 2024

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Kelly: Trump Fits "Fascist" Definition – But It's Complicated

John Kelly, former Chief of Staff to Donald Trump, went on record recently saying that Trump embodies many of the traits of a fascist. This statement has caused quite the stir, especially given Kelly's close proximity to Trump during his presidency.

What exactly did Kelly say? In an interview on CBS's "Face the Nation", Kelly was asked if he agreed with the assessment of Trump as a fascist. He replied, "He fits the definition, the definition as I understand it." But he also stressed that it's important to remember that Trump is a "very, very complex individual" and that he's "never wanted to be a politician".

So, what's the deal with fascism? It's a complex ideology that's hard to define definitively. But generally speaking, it's characterized by extreme nationalism, authoritarianism, and a disregard for democratic norms. Fascism often involves a strongman leader who appeals to the people's fears and insecurities, promising to "make the country great again".

Now, let's be honest, Trump has definitely said and done some stuff that fits the fascist playbook. He's repeatedly attacked the media, demonized immigrants, and shown disdain for democratic institutions. He's also cultivated a cult of personality around himself, encouraging blind loyalty and attacking anyone who criticizes him.

But, calling someone a fascist is a pretty serious accusation. It's not something to be thrown around lightly. And there's also a risk of oversimplifying a complex situation.

So, should we be worried about fascism in America? That's a question that doesn't have a simple answer. While there are some concerning parallels between Trump and fascist leaders of the past, it's important to remember that the US is a democracy with a long history of resisting authoritarianism.

Whether or not Trump fits the definition of a fascist is up for debate. But Kelly's statement is a reminder that it's crucial to remain vigilant and actively defend our democratic institutions. We can't just sit back and hope for the best – we have to be proactive in fighting against any form of authoritarianism, no matter who it comes from.

This is a topic that deserves ongoing discussion. It's not about simply labeling someone as a fascist – it's about understanding the dangerous ideology of fascism and its potential to take root in our society. And that's a responsibility that falls on all of us.