Today, Explained The "I love Hitler" group chat
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Oct 21, 2025 
In this discussion, Andrew Prokop, a political reporter for Vox, dives into the shocking leaked Young Republican group chat, revealing disturbing antisemitic and racist comments that have created a rift in the GOP. Jamie Cohen, an associate professor and meme culture expert, analyzes how online humor fosters normalization of offensive speech. They explore the impact of internet influencers on political narratives and the potential dangers of trivializing such behaviors within political circles. This conversation highlights a troubling trend in the young right.
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Normalization Of Extremist Humor
- The leaked Young Republicans chat showed normalized extremist humor across taboo topics like Hitler and racial slurs.
- Andrew Prokop argues this reveals a worrying foothold of anti-Semitism and bigotry among some young conservatives.
Offense As Online Status Ritual
- Extreme, offensive speech online can be a status ritual where people compete to be the most provocative.
- Jamie Cohen and Andrew Prokop say that 'based ritual' culture spreads from anonymous boards into real-world political spaces.
Influencers Amplify Bigotry
- Influencers like Nick Fuentes and other populist commentators have amplified anti-Semitic rhetoric into broader conservative spaces.
- Prokop links that influencer ecosystem to growing normalization of conspiracism and racialism among young staffers.