Kamala Harris has transitioned from a phase of optimism in her campaign to a more aggressive stance, specifically targeting Donald Trump by labeling him a fascist. During a recent CNN town hall, when asked if she considers Trump to be a fascist, Harris unequivocally responded, “Yes, I do.”
She acknowledged that while voters are concerned about pressing issues like inflation, they are equally worried about preserving democracy and having a president who admires dictators, emphasizing the importance of these values in the current political climate.
This new approach marks a significant shift in Harris’s rhetoric, which had previously focused on critiquing Trump as a typical Republican who prioritizes the wealthy and exhibits selfish behavior. As the campaign draws to a close, her strategy has intensified, painting Trump not just as a problematic politician but as a figure reminiscent of historical fascists like Mussolini.
This pivot comes in response to recent comments by former Trump chief of staff John Kelly and former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Mark Milley, who both suggested that Trump embodies fascist characteristics.
Critics of this characterization argue that it lacks substance and fails to meet the historical definitions of fascism. The author cites examples of true fascist ideologies, which rejected parliamentary democracy, celebrated violence, and promoted an all-encompassing state.
Kamala Harris
While Trump has made crude remarks and displayed troubling behavior post-2020 election, the claim that he bears any resemblance to 20th-century fascists is seen as exaggerated. Trump has not utilized paramilitary tactics against his adversaries nor pursued aggressive territorial expansion, instead focusing on domestic issues like judicial appointments and reducing federal power.
Moreover, accusations against Trump often rely on distortions of his statements and actions. For instance, his joking remark about becoming a dictator on Day 1 has been misconstrued as a serious intention, and his comments regarding the National Guard’s potential deployment during election unrest have been interpreted as threats to use military force against political opponents.
This misinterpretation of Trump’s intentions raises questions about the validity of the fascist label, particularly since fascism itself is not an American tradition but rather a foreign concept.
Finally, Harris’s new strategy may not resonate with the centrist voters she aims to attract, especially those disillusioned with Trump. These individuals are likely to respond better to a substantive message focused on critical issues like the economy and national security rather than bombastic accusations.
The frequent application of the term “fascist” to various Republican leaders may have diluted its impact, leaving voters indifferent to Harris’s claims. As the campaign reaches its conclusion, it appears that Harris’s reliance on this controversial label may overshadow any remaining positivity in her message.
