The Gist Code Name: Pale Horse — Scott Payne vs. the American Reich
21 snips
Mar 27, 2025 
Scott Payne, a retired FBI special agent, shares gripping tales from his time infiltrating neo-Nazi groups under the alias 'Pale Horse.' He discusses the emotional challenges and ethical dilemmas of maintaining an undercover identity while navigating dangerous environments. The conversation also touches on the economic implications of recent tariffs on autos, warning of long-term inefficiencies despite localized job creation. Finally, discussions on media accountability highlight the complexities surrounding police incidents in NYC.
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Early Undercover Experience
- Scott Payne, before joining the FBI in 1998, worked in local law enforcement in South Carolina.
- A formative experience involved him going undercover to investigate who defaced his principal's car.
Bouncer to FBI
- Before law enforcement, Payne worked as a bouncer, including at gentlemen's clubs and later, large country bars.
- This experience honed his verbal judo skills, using conversation and humor to de-escalate situations instead of force.
Soft Power in Law Enforcement
- Effective bouncers and law enforcement officers share the ability to exert force when necessary.
- Their primary skill lies in using soft power and persuasion to achieve their objectives without resorting to physical force.
