Changing Shape of Threats to American Democracy

The violent takeover of the Capitol and the attempt to halt the certification of the presidential election brought into bold relief the profound schisms in society and the growing power of the far right. The far-right extremist movement has adapted and evolved in the past year, emphasizing decentralization and focusing on smaller state and local organizing groups. This shift allows them to evade scrutiny and be more politically effective. They have targeted issues such as racial justice, opposition to critical race theory, and opposition to public safety mandates and protocols. There has also been a cross-fertilization between extremist groups and anti-vaxxers.