David Gilbert, a journalist from WIRED who tackles disinformation and online extremism, reveals the alarming rise of constitutional sheriffs. These self-proclaimed enforcers are reshaping election integrity discussions, driven by conspiracy theories from the 2020 election. Gilbert highlights their recruitment efforts and troubling ties to extremist ideologies, particularly as we approach the 2024 elections. The podcast sheds light on the seductive mix of law enforcement and politics, raising significant concerns about the future of democracy.
The constitutional sheriffs, influenced by Richard Mack, challenge federal authority and claim ultimate law enforcement power in their counties.
The movement's escalating actions, such as attempts to seize voting machines, pose significant risks to election integrity and democratic practices.
Deep dives
The Carnival of Constitutional Sheriffs
A recent convention for constitutional sheriffs showcased a gathering that resembled a carnival rather than a typical law enforcement conference. Attendees included vendors selling politically themed merchandise and speakers promoting controversial ideas about election integrity and local authority. The sheriffs present asserted their belief that they hold ultimate power within their counties, opposing federal and state authority. Central to their discussion was the narrative that the 2020 election had been stolen, and they voiced intentions to take action to safeguard future elections.
Richard Mack and the Origins of the Movement
The constitutional sheriff's movement is significantly influenced by Richard Mack, who transitioned from a local sheriff to a leader advocating for this ideology. Mack's dissatisfaction with law enforcement quotas and federal overreach catalyzed his belief that sheriffs should be the highest law enforcement authority in their jurisdictions. His activism gained traction during events like Waco and Ruby Ridge, where he believed the federal government acted unjustly against citizens. By founding the Constitutional Sheriffs and Peace Officers Association, Mack formalized the movement, rallying support among sheriffs nationwide, though his numbers reveal a complex landscape of belief regarding these ideas.
Election Integrity and Action Plans
The sheriffs' commitment to ensuring election integrity has escalated since the 2020 elections, with some exhibiting increasingly concerning behaviors and rhetoric. For instance, a sheriff from Michigan attempted to seize voting machines, reflecting a willingness to initiate drastic measures based on unproven conspiracies. The concerted efforts of local sheriffs signal a potential for unrest if their beliefs about a stolen election persist, particularly in the lead-up to the 2024 elections. Leaders within this movement are gearing up to take decisive actions, potentially disrupting election processes, which raises alarms about the implications for democratic practices.
They believe they are the law. They believe the 2020 election was stolen from Donald Trump. They’re determined not to let it happen again. Meet the constitutional sheriffs.
Guest: David Gilbert, reports on disinformation, online extremism and election hucksters for WIRED.
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Podcast production by Elena Schwartz, Paige Osburn, Anna Phillips, Madeline Ducharme and Rob Gunther.