The DSR Network NTK: How to Combat Authoritarianism in the US: A Conversation with Sen. Jeff Merkley
Dec 2, 2025
Senator Jeff Merkley, a U.S. Senator from Oregon and progressive leader, discusses urgent strategies to combat rising authoritarianism in the U.S. He condemns recent military actions as potentially illegal and warns of escalation towards Venezuela. Merkley highlights the need for citizens to protest and engage politically. He also outlines Senate tactics to resist abuses of power, critiques the Supreme Court's role in enabling executive overreach, and emphasizes policy fights to defend democracy against wealth concentration and authoritarian trends.
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Illegality And Moral Cost Of Attacks
- Jeff Merkley argues the strikes on vessels risk constituting murder or war crimes when survivors are targeted.
- He warns the administration's sketchy legal basis and pardons create dangerous precedents for international law.
Buildup Creates Momentum For Escalation
- Merkley warns military build-ups create momentum that can lead to escalating strikes and regime-change efforts.
- He likens current Venezuela posturing to past interventions that don't serve U.S. national interest.
Act Locally And Organize
- Do get involved locally: attend town halls, write letters, call representatives, and demonstrate outside their offices.
- Do join affinity groups to turn anger into organized, effective civic action.