Explore the tensions ignited by armed protests at the Michigan State Capitol and how they foreshadowed the January 6 insurrection. Delve into the sinister plots of the Wolverine Watchmen militia targeting Governor Whitmer. Discover the impact of far-right movements like the Proud Boys on American politics and the potential ramifications of Trump’s proposed pardons. As the 2024 election looms, the podcast warns of escalating violence and the subtle cues that could trigger unrest, making this a crucial listen for understanding the current political climate.
The Michigan Capitol protest in April 2020, while largely peaceful, foreshadowed the violent events of January 6, reflecting escalating political tensions.
Trump's potential pardons for January 6 rioters could embolden extremist groups, signaling dangerous implications for future political dissent in America.
Deep dives
The Michigan Capitol Protest
In April 2020, a significant protest occurred at the Michigan State Capitol against Governor Gretchen Whitmer's COVID lockdown laws. Unlike the infamous January 6th event, this protest was largely peaceful, with law enforcement allowing armed protesters into public areas of the building, highlighting differences in police response. While the protesters displayed offensive symbols and vocalized their frustrations, no violence ensued, and by the end of the day, they left without causing any property damage. The protest received national attention when President Trump encouraged similar demonstrations, which set the stage for future unrest.
The Rise of Militia Groups
Militia groups, particularly the Wolverine Watchmen, gained notoriety after the Michigan protest, with members actively planning the kidnapping of Governor Whitmer. An informant within the group revealed their intentions as they conducted surveillance and training for the operation, which included a proposed trial and execution for treason. The FBI intervened, arresting several militia members and highlighting the growing threat of far-right domestic terrorism, which had been a concern for law enforcement since mid-2019. This incident underscored the intersection of political discontent and organized militant responses.
The January 6th Capitol Riot
The events of January 6, 2021, escalated dramatically as a mob, influenced by Trump's rhetoric, violently stormed the Capitol in a bid to overturn the election results. The chaos resulted in numerous injuries and the death of a police officer, marking a stark contrast to the earlier Michigan protest. While many rioters claimed they were acting on Trump's wishes, he delayed responding to the unrest, leaving police to manage the violence without presidential support for hours. This pivotal moment raised significant questions about Trump's leadership and the motives of his supporters, reflecting a dangerous precedent for future elections.
Eight months before January 6, a very similar mob stormed a different government building. Armed men, furious about an extension of COVID lockdowns, stormed the state Capitol building in Lansing, Michigan.
It was a precursor to the march on the Capitol in Washington DC, with chants, signs and even protesters in common. But among some of the men in Michigan that day, a plot was brewing that was more sinister. It shows just how insidious and dangerous the lies spreading among Donald Trump’s supporters can be.
If he wins, Trump has vowed to pardon those people convicted of crimes on January 6—what signal could such immunity send?
We've released this episode of America's Last Election early, so you can listen before election day. The video of this podcast episode will be released on Saturday morning as usual.