1Dime Radio The Leftist Case for National Service (Ft. Harper O'Connor)
Jan 16, 2026
In this engaging discussion, Harper O'Connor, a Socialist YouTuber and DSA organizer, shares his vision for a leftist National Service, including a transformative Civilian Climate Corps. He dives into the military's role in political legitimacy and how it can combat climate change. Harper explores the challenges of attracting young men to the left and preventive strategies against far-right ideologies. The conversation touches on civic duty, social benefits, and how collective service can rebuild community and counteract societal atomization.
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Create A Civilian Climate Corps
- Do plan civilian national-service programs aimed at climate work rather than expanding combat roles.
- Harper recommends a Civilian Climate Corps to mobilize people for infrastructure, conservation, and disaster response.
Military As A Political Force
- The military already functions as a political actor with broad legitimacy in the U.S. public sphere.
- Harper O'Connor argues we should imagine transforming that institution toward democratic, civic uses rather than ignoring its political role.
CCC As A Playbook
- The Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) is a direct historical precedent for large-scale civilian mobilization.
- Harper highlights the CCC's mix of quasi-military structure and civilian purpose as a model to revive for climate times.
