The News Agents Mehdi Hasan on America's 'Neo-Fascism'
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Jan 9, 2026 
In this discussion, Mehdi Hasan, a prominent British-born journalist and founder of Zeteo, dives into the alarming trajectory of Trump's administration. He describes the rapid militarization of the U.S., highlighting the empowerment of ICE and paramilitary forces. Hasan reflects on why he labels Trump's leadership as neo-fascist, noting the disturbing normalization of extremist ideas. He also warns of Trumpism's global impact and its potential spread to the UK, all while sharing the personal toll of reporting on such a tumultuous political landscape.
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Rapid Build Of Authoritarian Machinery
- The Trump administration rapidly built authoritarian tools in its first year, including expanded ICE powers and National Guard deployment.
- Mehdi Hasan warns this consolidation resembles a neo-fascist machinery with little resistance to date.
Media Capture Amplifies Regime Power
- Trump now benefits from a far larger media alliance of billionaire owners and platform controllers than in his first term.
- Hasan argues this concentration makes media capture and narrative control significantly more dangerous this term.
Resist The 'Flood The Zone' Trap
- Do not let Trump set the news agenda by constantly flooding the zone with new controversies.
- Hasan urges media and audiences to resist exhaustion and prioritise follow-up on persistent scandals like Epstein.