Uncanny Valley | WIRED The New Power of Far-Right Influencers
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Oct 16, 2025 David Gilbert, a reporter for WIRED who specializes in extremism and disinformation, joins the conversation to discuss the alarming targeting of history professor Mark Bray by far-right influencers. They explore how Bray's book on Antifa drew significant backlash, particularly after the Trump administration's mischaracterization of the group. Gilbert highlights how recent political events escalated threats against Bray, forcing him to flee to Spain. The dialogue dives into the responsibility of tech platforms in moderating dangerous disinformation and the growing influence of far-right narratives in today's political landscape.
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Professor Forced To Flee After Threats
- Mark Bray tracked escalating death threats after his 2017 book and donations to anti-fascist causes made him a target.
- Threats included his home address and messages like "I'll kill you in front of your students," forcing him to flee the U.S. with his family.
Policy Moves Amplify Online Targeting
- Trump's executive order to label Antifa reignited far-right influencer attacks on perceived figures like Bray.
- Influencers amplified claims he was a leader or financier, turning him into a focused target.
Petition, Media Pickup, And Flight Problems
- A Turning Point USA Rutgers petition and Fox News pickup escalated harassment against Bray with renewed death threats.
- Bray attempted to leave the U.S.; his first flight reservation vanished but he later traveled to Spain with his family.
