The Ezra Klein Show Trump Is Building the Blue Scare
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Sep 24, 2025 Corey Robin, a political theorist and McCarthyism expert, delves into the alarming parallels between today's political climate and historical Red Scares. He discusses how the Trump administration utilizes tactics reminiscent of past purges, focusing on employment sanctions and surveillance. Robin highlights the chilling effects of these methods on LGBTQ communities and underscores the risks posed by current anti-communist rhetoric. Their conversation reveals how reactionary politics repurposes past strategies, fundamentally reshaping cultural and political landscapes.
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Red Scare As A Political Template
- The Red Scare defined an uncompromisable political enemy and used that label to purge wide swaths of opponents.
- Ezra Klein argues today's administration is creating a similar "Blue Scare" to justify broad repression.
Palmer Raids Example
- Corey Robin recounts the 1919–1920 Palmer Raids that rounded up radicals and deported many, like Emma Goldman.
- He uses this to show repression often follows real acts of violence and pretexts.
Communism Was Embedded In Institutions
- Communism grew significant influence in U.S. institutions during the 1930s–40s, especially in labor and culture.
- That mix of mainstream influence plus genuine espionage made the second Red Scare combustible.
