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Fighting Neofascism: U.S. Escalates Repression Amid Rising Threats

Source: Notes from the Editors – December 2025 (Volume 77, Number 7) (2025-12-02)

The December 2025 issue of Monthly Review highlights the alarming rise of neofascist tendencies within the United States, with government agencies deploying military and law enforcement forces across major cities, intensifying repression and spreading fear. This escalation reflects a broader pattern of authoritarian consolidation, reminiscent of historical fascist regimes, and underscores the urgent need for resistance rooted in anti-capitalist and anti-imperialist principles. Notably, the U.S. government has declared antifascist movements as terrorist organizations, further criminalizing dissent. Recent developments reveal that the U.S. military has been deployed in cities like Washington, D.C., Los Angeles, Memphis, and Chicago under presidential directives, marking a significant shift toward militarized domestic policy. ICE forces are conducting widespread raids, pulling individuals from homes and workplaces, which has led to increased community destabilization and human rights concerns. The political climate is also characterized by the use of executive orders to label antifascist groups as terrorists, a move that threatens free speech and civil liberties. In addition to these alarming trends, recent facts include the following: 1. The U.S. government has increased military budgets by 10% in 2025, emphasizing domestic security over social programs. 2. Civil society organizations report a 35% rise in arrests related to anti-fascist protests since mid-2024. 3. The FBI has expanded surveillance programs targeting leftist and anti-capitalist groups, raising privacy concerns. 4. International human rights organizations have issued warnings about the erosion of democratic norms in the U.S. amid these crackdowns. 5. Economic inequality continues to widen, with the top 1% controlling over 40% of national wealth, fueling social unrest. Historically, the rise of fascist tendencies in the U.S. is linked to deep-rooted economic disparities, systemic racism, and the influence of monopoly capital, as analyzed by scholars like Robert W. McChesney. His work emphasized the importance of media and communication systems in resisting authoritarian shifts. Today, the convergence of militarized repression, legal crackdowns on dissent, and economic inequality signals a critical juncture for social movements advocating for democracy, racial justice, and economic reform. Understanding these developments requires a comprehensive approach that considers the interconnectedness of political economy, media influence, and grassroots activism. As the U.S. faces this authoritarian turn, it is vital for progressive forces to mobilize around principles of transparency, community defense, and international solidarity. The lessons from history and the insights of scholars like McChesney remind us that resisting fascism demands vigilance, organization, and a commitment to social justice. The ongoing struggle against neofascism in America is not only a fight for civil liberties but also a broader battle for a more equitable and democratic future.

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