What Next | Spoiler Alert: The People Policing Your Vote
Oct 31, 2024
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David Gilbert, a reporter for WIRED specializing in disinformation and online extremism, dives into the unsettling world of constitutional sheriffs. He describes his experiences at an unconventional sheriff convention where attendees fervently share their beliefs about the 2020 election being stolen. The discussion highlights the sheriffs' assertive stance against federal authorities and their role in the upcoming elections, raising concerns about the integrity of voting processes and the potential for increased law enforcement interference.
The rise of constitutional sheriffs reflects a disturbing trend where local law enforcement embraces extremist ideologies and oversteps their authority.
Concerns over the legitimacy of the 2020 election and calls for local militias represent an alarming intertwining of police power and partisan politics.
Deep dives
The Carnival of Constitutional Sheriffs
The conference hosted by constitutional sheriffs was described as resembling a carnival, featuring vendors and various booths that highlighted a mix of political merchandise and survivalist themes. Attendees included individuals such as a sovereign citizen lawyer, who represented a growing trend among sheriffs who reject federal authority, believing their elected position grants them ultimate power. This gathering emphasized their belief in being accountable only to their constituents, which they claimed gave them the right to enforce their interpretation of the Constitution. The focus on the legitimacy of the 2020 election and fears regarding future elections showcased a troubling trend where law enforcement's role might intersect dangerously with partisan politics.
Election Denial and Local Power
Many sheriffs at the conference promoted the narrative that the 2020 election was stolen, citing concerns that Trump should be reinstated in 2024. One sheriff presented a detailed guide for forming local militias to oppose perceived electoral fraud, indicating an alarming shift toward violent rhetoric within law enforcement circles. The intensity of their beliefs poses risks for upcoming elections, as sheriffs could potentially overstep their authority if they perceive threats to electoral integrity. The idea that these sheriffs would actively intervene in election processes raises significant concerns about the intersection of local law enforcement and extremist ideologies.
Roots of the Constitutional Sheriffs Movement
The constitutional sheriffs movement traces its origins to Richard Mack, who shifted from traditional law enforcement to focusing on a more radical interpretation of sheriff authority after perceived overreach by the federal government. Events like Waco and Ruby Ridge influenced his perspective, ultimately leading him to form an organization aimed at empowering sheriffs who share a similar ideology. Although Mack claims hundreds of sheriffs resonate with the movement's principles, surveys indicate that a more significant percentage believe in their authority, highlighting the pervasive sentiment among sheriffs nationwide. This disconnect between the movement's official numbers and shared beliefs poses a potential threat as these sheriffs navigate upcoming elections.
They believe they are the law. They believe the 2020 election was stolen from Donald Trump. They’re determined not to let it happen again. Meet the constitutional sheriffs.
Guest: David Gilbert, reports on disinformation, online extremism and election hucksters for WIRED.
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Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.