Attacks on Democracy

January 6th, election interference, acts of authoritarianism, voter suppression, and systematic undermining of democratic institutions.

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Stories

MAGA figure tells Australian conservatives Angela Merkel did more damage to Germany's ...

MAGA figure tells Australian conservatives Angela Merkel did more damage to Germany's ...

A British political operative associated with Steve Bannon has claimed that Angela Merkel's support for mass immigration has caused more damage to Germany than the Nazis, criticizing center-right politicians for betraying Western nations. The comments were made at an Advance conference in Sydney attended by prominent Australian figures, including former Prime Minister Tony Abbott, and focused on opposition to immigration and cultural identity issues. The event also featured speeches criticizing Australia's migration policies and promoting far-right narratives, with Advance advocating for long-term political campaigns targeting younger Australians. The group distanced itself from Harnwell's specific comments, emphasizing the importance of free idea exchange.

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Purple State Politics: NC GOP Sen. Thom Tillis Slams White House Staff - Her Campus

Purple State Politics: NC GOP Sen. Thom Tillis Slams White House Staff - Her Campus

North Carolina GOP Senator Thom Tillis announced he will not seek re-election in 2026 and has recently criticized White House staff, including Stephen Miller and Donald Trump, for their comments and actions. Tillis voiced disapproval of Miller's statements about Greenland and expressed frustration with partisan polarization, which he attributes to a decline in political compromise. His outspoken criticism has elicited mixed responses and highlights the contentious political climate in North Carolina, a key swing state, with implications for national party dynamics.

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'I Love Both Institutions': Harvard Veterans Caught in Pentagon-Harvard Rift Warn of Lasting Costs

'I Love Both Institutions': Harvard Veterans Caught in Pentagon-Harvard Rift Warn of Lasting Costs

Student veterans at Harvard Kennedy School criticized the Department of Defense's decision to cut academic partnerships with Harvard starting in 2026-27, arguing that it will harm military education and increase the civil-military divide. The move, justified by claims of Harvard’s campus culture and foreign ties, is seen by critics as politically motivated and short-sighted, with concerns that it will weaken civilian-military relations and limit exposure to diverse policy perspectives for active-duty officers. Harvard faculty and alumni also expressed disapproval, emphasizing the mutual benefits of these programs and warning of long-term institutional consequences.

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Illegal Orders and the Criminals Who Give Them - CounterPunch.org

Illegal Orders and the Criminals Who Give Them - CounterPunch.org

Six Democratic lawmakers who issued a video instructing military personnel to disobey illegal orders were not indicted, despite calls from President Trump for their execution and accusations of treason by prosecutors. The lawmakers emphasized that obeying unlawful orders is not mandatory, referencing legal principles established after WWII, such as the Nuremberg Principles. Critics argue that recent U.S. military actions may violate international law, and some military officials, like Admiral Holsey, have resigned over concerns about the legality of certain operations.

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Brandi Carlile Says Trump Voters 'Got F—ing Scammed': 'Get Mad Enough to Change Your Minds'

Brandi Carlile Says Trump Voters 'Got F—ing Scammed': 'Get Mad Enough to Change Your Minds'

Brandi Carlile expressed her belief that Trump voters and others who feel duped by political and social injustices have the power to change their minds through anger and activism. During her Minneapolis concert supporting immigrant rights, she criticized current immigration policies and emphasized the importance of resilience, unity, and collective action in resisting oppression. Carlile also shared a personal story about being scammed to illustrate themes of awakening and empowerment, advocating for hope and change in the face of societal challenges.

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Only Clowns Are Orange

The Honeypot Activist: Seducing Men Out of MAGA - Beaver - LSE

Brooke Teegarden uses a fake social media persona to engage with far-right men and subtly challenge their beliefs, often covertly introducing feminist and liberal ideas through flirtation and conversation. Her account, @theletsnotdate, has gained over 200,000 followers and has been effective in encouraging some men to question their ideologies. Her tactics include posing as an attractive, sympathetic ally and occasionally fabricating scenarios to prompt reflection on their views, with the aim of reducing polarization and fostering empathy. Despite controversy over her methods, Teegarden sees her approach as a form of activism that emphasizes understanding and connection as tools for ideological change.

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The Week Ahead - Civil Discourse with Joyce Vance - Substack

The Week Ahead - Civil Discourse with Joyce Vance - Substack

This week’s focus includes the State of the Union address, ongoing debates over presidential authority to impose tariffs, and expected Supreme Court decisions. The article highlights concerns about a federal shooting involving a U.S. citizen in Texas and recent deaths at ICE detention facilities, as well as delays in releasing the special counsel report on classified documents involving Trump. Additionally, notable events include hearings on seized election materials, and upcoming testimonies from Hillary and Bill Clinton related to Jeffrey Epstein.

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'Betrayed their trust': Donald Trump just alienated another key part of MAGA base - Alternet

'Betrayed their trust': Donald Trump just alienated another key part of MAGA base - Alternet

Donald Trump has alienated supporters of the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement after issuing an executive order to increase glyphosate production, which environmentalists and some of his supporters consider harmful. The MAHA coalition, which includes activists promoting natural diets and challenging mainstream science on vaccines, initially supported Trump's health initiatives but now feel betrayed by his recent actions. RFK Jr., once associated with the movement, now serves in the Trump administration, but the shift has caused discontent within the MAGA base.

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Platte County commissioner condemns know-your-rights event - Spectrum News

Platte County commissioner condemns know-your-rights event - Spectrum News

Platte County Commissioner Scott Fricker has opposed a planned know-your-rights event concerning ICE tactics, criticizing it as anti-law enforcement advocacy and divisive politics. The event, organized by local Democratic groups, aims to inform residents about their rights and has garnered criticism from Fricker, who argued it could incite violence against law enforcement. The organizers clarified that the event is meant solely for informational purposes and have since removed the controversial flyer element. The event is scheduled to take place at Green Hills Library Center, which is allowing the meeting to occur as a public space.

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Only Clowns Are Orange

[Event] Et tu Rubio? | The call from inside the House | Tell Mike Pence, I send my regards

The article depicts internal discussions within Donald Trump's political circle between January and June 2028, revealing plans and concerns about his potential third run for president amid ongoing legal and political challenges. It highlights conversations with key figures, including Marco Rubio, Donald Trump Jr., and Mike Pence, focusing on strategies to preserve Trump's influence, avoid legal repercussions, and navigate constitutional crises, with themes of loyalty, legacy, and political defiance. The narrative portrays a tense, calculated effort to maintain power amid mounting opposition, protests, and legal hurdles.

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Twin Cities metro musicians release protest song to raise funds for the ACLU-MN | Music

Twin Cities metro musicians release protest song to raise funds for the ACLU-MN | Music

Twin Cities musicians have released a protest song titled "They Lie" to raise funds for the ACLU of Minnesota, inspired by events surrounding the death of Alex Pretti and addressing issues related to immigration enforcement. The song was written by Katy Vernon as an emotional response to local tragedies and produced with the help of Kevin Bowe. A music video featuring footage from protests and memorials was created by Jason Chaffee. Proceeds from sales of the single will support the ACLU's efforts in the state.

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The Surprising Skill MAGA Christians Say Is 'Sinful' - HuffPost

The Surprising Skill MAGA Christians Say Is 'Sinful' - HuffPost

The article discusses the rise of anti-empathy rhetoric among MAGA Christians, with influential voices framing empathy as a weakness, manipulation, or a threat to faith. This shift is seen as a deviation from Christian teachings of compassion and love, which are rooted in scripture and exemplified by Jesus Christ. Experts argue that vilifying empathy serves to reinforce existing power structures, justify bigotry, and disconnect believers from marginalized groups, ultimately undermining the core principles of Christianity.

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