I asked Chat GPT this rhetorical question. Here’s its namby-pamby answer, obviously based on what transpired during his first term. 2025 is not 2017. Let’s ask the same question after the end of Trump 2.0 – if not before. My response would be: Is the Pope Catholic?

Here’s a dictionary definition of fascism that ChatGPT didn’t mention in its answer:  “a populist political philosophy, movement, or regime (such as that of the Fascisti) that exalts nation and often race above the individual, that is associated with a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, and that is characterized by severe economic and social regimentation and by forcible suppression of opposition.” If the shoe fits…

If you want a better understanding of what is happening in the US, read Project 2025. It’s the instruction manual for Trump 2.0. If you’re not familiar with this document as a blueprint for the USA’s descent into authoritarianism and Christofascism, you can start with a detailed Wikipedia description or some online articles, including this one from September 2024, i.e., before the US presidential election. (Yes, it’s happening.)

Peace, MAA

The question of whether Donald Trump can be classified as a fascist is a matter of intense debate among scholars, political analysts, and commentators. “Fascism” as an ideology and political system has specific characteristics, including authoritarian leadership, suppression of political opposition, strong nationalism, and often a disdain for democratic norms and institutions.

While some critics of Trump have used the term “fascist” or described his rhetoric and actions as “fascist-like,” others argue that this label is too extreme or inaccurate. Here are some of the key points that both sides might make:

Arguments for Trump being “fascist-like”:

1. Authoritarian tendencies: Trump has been accused of undermining democratic norms, expressing admiration for authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin, and showing contempt for checks and balances on executive power.
2. Populism and nationalism: Trump’s rhetoric often appeals to strong nationalist sentiments (“America First”), and he promotes a vision of the nation that emphasizes a return to “traditional” values, which some see as aligning with the populist elements of fascism.
3. Demonization of political opponents: Trump’s frequent insults and vilification of political rivals, as well as his tendency to label them as “enemies of the people” or “traitors,” echoes some aspects of fascist discourse.
4. Disregard for democratic institutions: Trump’s actions during his presidency, including challenging the outcome of the 2020 election and attempting to stay in power despite losing, raised concerns about his respect for democratic processes.

Arguments against Trump being a fascist:

1. No full suppression of opposition: While Trump often engaged in harsh rhetoric against his critics, the United States did not experience the kind of full-scale suppression of political opposition, civil liberties, and free speech that is characteristic of fascist regimes.
2. Checks on power: Despite his attempts to challenge democratic norms, Trump did not have the complete control over the state that fascist leaders typically do. He faced resistance from the judiciary, Congress, and even within his own party.
3. Democratic elections: Trump was elected through the democratic process, and while he attempted to overturn the results of the 2020 election, this alone doesn’t meet the criteria of fascism, which generally involves the total collapse of democratic institutions.

Ultimately, whether Trump is a fascist depends on the specific definition of fascism you’re using. It’s a term that gets invoked in political discourse, but applying it rigorously requires a careful look at both the ideological and practical elements of his leadership. Some may see parallels, while others might view the comparison as overstating the case.