THE DAILY BLAST with Greg Sargent Trump’s Fury Erupts in Many Directions, Unnerving Experts: “Insanity!”
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Aug 26, 2025 
Garrett Graff, a journalist and historian focused on national security and technology, discusses the alarming rise of authoritarianism under Trump. He highlights Trump's brazen threats to dissenters and media, likening the current climate to early signs of American fascism. Graff tackles issues like federal overreach and the militarization of law enforcement, questioning the erosion of democratic norms. He warns that we are witnessing a significant shift in governance that could have lasting effects on American society.
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Escalation Signals A New Phase
- Garrett Graff argues Trump's recent threats mark a new, more emboldened phase of authoritarianism in the U.S..
- He warns this escalation is incremental and can be easy to miss until the country feels fundamentally different.
Federal Forces Interacting With D.C. Civilians
- Garrett describes federal agents in D.C. forcing commuters to show ID and an MRAP colliding with a civilian car as evidence of an occupation-like presence.
- He notes the National Guard later were authorized to carry weapons, deepening the sense of occupation.
State As Personal Taste
- Graff highlights Trump's belief that 'the state is me' extends beyond politics into culture, museums, and sports.
- He frames this as authoritarian: Trump expects his personal taste to dictate national culture and institutions.