Fact-Checking the Trump Administration: Early Warning Signs of Fascism
This document provides a point-by-point fact check of the “early warning signs of fascism” as applied to the Trump administration, with reputable sources for each claim.
1. Powerful and Continuing Nationalism
- Trump’s “America First” policy and rhetoric are well-documented.
- Sources: White House | Brookings
2. Disdain for Human Rights
- Human Rights Watch and Columbia Law School documented rollbacks and violations, especially regarding migrants, LGBTQ+ rights, and protestors.
- Sources: HRW | Columbia Law
3. Identification of Enemies/Scapegoats
- Trump frequently targeted immigrants, political opponents, and the media as enemies.
- Sources: The Fulcrum | Techdirt
4. Supremacy of the Military
- Trump increased military spending and considered using the Insurrection Act for domestic deployment.
- Sources: NPR | FactCheck.org
5. Rampant Sexism
- Trump has a long history of sexist remarks and policies, and faced multiple allegations.
- Sources: Washington Post | Vox
6. Controlled Mass Media
- Trump did not control the media but attacked it, cut funding to public broadcasters, and attempted to punish critical outlets.
- Sources: DW | PBS
7. Obsession with National Security
- Strong focus on border security, immigration, and crime, sometimes with misleading claims.
- Sources: NYT | CNN
8. Religion and Government Intertwined
- Trump established a Religious Liberty Commission and promoted Christian identity in government.
- Sources: White House | Politico
9. Corporate Power is Protected
10. Labor Power is Suppressed
- Anti-union appointments, weakened labor protections, and opposition to worker safety rules.
- Sources: CWA Union | AFL-CIO
11. Disdain for Intellectuals & the Arts
- Proposed defunding the NEA/NEH, denigrated experts, and dismissed intellectualism.
- Source: Foreign Policy
12. Obsession with Crime & Punishment
- “Law and order” rhetoric, harsh immigration enforcement, and misleading crime claims.
- Sources: NPR | Brennan Center
13. Rampant Cronyism & Corruption
- Multiple associates convicted, firing of inspectors general, and use of office for personal gain.
- Sources: Yahoo | Citizens for Ethics
14. Fraudulent Elections
- Trump repeatedly made false claims about election fraud, undermining confidence in elections.
- Sources: FactCheck.org | PBS
These sources provide detailed, reputable fact-checks and analysis for each point. If you need more detail on any specific point, consult the linked articles.