Bulwark Takes

When MAGA Invents Its Own Enemies

Oct 24, 2025
Join investigative reporter Will Sommer, author of the False Flag newsletter, as he delves into the perplexing world of MAGA media and its penchant for fabricating stories of left-wing violence. Discover how a GOP event turned into chaos among Republicans, and hear about a teenager’s bizarre tale of a staged kidnapping linked to 'Mexican cartel hitmen.' Sommer and Stein also explore the dangerous impact of right-wing influencers driving real government action, as viral outrage leads to ICE raids. Buckle up for a wild ride through disinformation!
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ANECDOTE

Debate Party Hecklers Were Republicans

  • At an Arlington GOP debate watch party two hecklers were filmed being ejected and labeled as leftists online. The Arlington GOP later confirmed the hecklers were actually fellow Republicans confronting local organizers.
ADVICE

Demand Corrections, Not Deletions

  • Hold media figures accountable when they amplify false narratives by requesting corrections rather than letting deletions stand. Call for transparent corrections to prevent misinformation from persisting in memory.
INSIGHT

Local Spats Become National Left-Right Stories

  • Local internal GOP disputes can be reframed as partisan attacks and amplified nationally. That reframing helps build a narrative that blames 'leftists' even when conflicts are intra-party.
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