Joshua Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter, dives into the tumultuous world of American militias. He discusses the ramifications of Donald Trump's pardons, which have reignited militia activity, highlighting experiences of an undercover operative who infiltrated these groups. Kaplan reveals the dual nature of militias — part community clubs, part paramilitary organizations — and the dangers of extremism, illustrated by a former member's struggle to leave. The conversation also explores the troubling connection between law enforcement and militia affiliations.

Joshua Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter with a focus on unlawful American militia groups, joins the discussion to shed light on the rising threat posed by these organizations. He shares insights from his in-depth investigation into how militias have capitalized on Trump's election denial for recruitment. The conversation explores the complexities of these groups’ ideologies, the tactics they use to evade law enforcement, and the implications for public safety, especially in the wake of incidents like January 6th.

Josh Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter focusing on January 6th and right-wing militias, delves into the profound implications of Trump's pardons for Capitol rioters. He discusses how these actions empower groups like the Oath Keepers and Proud Boys, fostering their recruitment and radicalization. Kaplan examines the militia movement's evolution, particularly their rise during the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent political turmoil. The conversation sheds light on the dangerous resurgence of far-right militias, highlighting the ongoing threats they pose to American society.

In a hearing today, the Senate Judiciary Committee took on the Supreme Court’s lack of ethics standards. ProPublica’s Joshua Kaplan explains how his reporting on Justice Clarence Thomas’s history of accepting gifts from a conservative megadonor led to increased scrutiny of the court.This episode was produced by Haleema Shah and Siona Peterous, edited by Amina Al-Sadi, fact-checked by Laura Bullard and Serena Solin, engineered by Paul Robert Mounsey, and hosted by Sean Rameswaram.Transcript at vox.com/todayexplained  Support Today, Explained by making a financial contribution to Vox! bit.ly/givepodcasts Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Josh Kaplan, a ProPublica reporter specializing in January 6th events and right-wing militias, dives deep into the alarming resurgence of militia groups like the Proud Boys and Oath Keepers. He discusses how Trump’s potential pardons for January 6 rioters have boosted these groups' legitimacy. Kaplan highlights the timeline of militia growth in America, touching on their strategies, recruitment tactics, and the chilling implications for political violence. The conversation paints a stark picture of the evolving landscape of right-wing extremism in the country.