I defined “fascism” as the pursuit of reactionary ends by extraconstitutional means in a post around a year ago. Wednesday’s events unquestionably meet that definition. What does that mean for the GOP?
Here is where the factions stand:
- CDs: They have already left the party. This episode will convince them they made the right decision.
- CLs: Fascism inevitably involves an increase in the power of the state over the individual. CLs will oppose that with all the strength they can muster. Unfortunately, they are easily the smallest remaining faction in the party.
- Reactionaries: They’re now split into two groups. One of them has some respect for the Constitution and our political institutions; it deplores the invasion of the Capitol. The other, much larger, group, supports the takeover and thinks Trump is still fighting for real Americans against the leftist enemy and their misguided RINO allies.
- PBPs: Mitch McConnell, the WSJ, and the NAM denounced the takeover in no uncertain terms after the loss of the two Senate seats in Georgia. They want Trump gone ASAP.
The bottom line is that over 40 percent of GOP voters, according to a survey, believe the violence was justified. That means the GOP is on the edge of turning into a fascist party. Can the rot be stopped?
It’s up to the PBPs. History tells us they prefer limited government, which maximizes their freedom and power, but will support fascists if they think the only viable alternative is socialism. We’ll see.