What Next | Daily News and Analysis Trump’s Gift to Militias
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Jan 27, 2025 Josh Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter focusing on January 6th and right-wing militias, delves into the profound implications of Trump's pardons for Capitol rioters. He discusses how these actions empower groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, fostering their recruitment and radicalization. Kaplan examines the militia movement's evolution, particularly their rise during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political turmoil. The conversation sheds light on the dangerous resurgence of far-right militias, highlighting the ongoing threats they pose to American society.
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Militia Shift
- The militia movement has shifted from anti-government to pro-Trump.
- While not always aligned with Trump, they are heavily influenced by him.
Impact of Pardons
- Trump's pardons could significantly boost militia recruitment and embolden them.
- This unprecedented support might be interpreted as a license for extreme action.
Militia Origins and Turning Point
- The modern militia movement began around 2008 with Obama's election and the financial crisis.
- 2020 marked a turning point with COVID lockdowns, BLM protests, and election disputes.