Hartmann: Do Democrats have the guts to fight fascism?

Good question Thom. Some of us do but so many others are in denial that it's that serious. And it's that apathy and cozy comfort that the fascists count on to fully implement their agenda.

"We stand on the threshold of momentous change in this nation.  While it’s rarely discussed in this frame, the next two elections will almost certainly determine what form of government we’ll have for at least a generation. Will America become more free and democratic, or will we devolve into a 21st century form of Trumpy fascism?"

"Authoritarian forces have seized control of the GOP and are committed to ending democracy in this country, replacing it with an Orbán-like Hungary-style merger of corporate and state leadership.  January 6th is now openly viewed by Trump’s followers as a rehearsal for 2024 as they fine-tune vote-counting systems and elect toadies who will bend to their will and change election outcomes the next time voters reject them."

"But do Democrats have the will and power to fight a battle against financially well-armed rightwing billionaires and their predatory and polluting industries? Not to mention taking on today’s GOP version of Mussolini’s Blackshirts, the volunteer civilian 'tough guy' militias that initially roamed around Italy beating up Jews and lefties?"

"The good news is that, increasingly, both our media and elected Democrats (and former Republicans) are calling this out for what it is, a naked assault on our system of government itself. But will it be enough? That will depend on Democratic turnout. [...] Brian Clardy, a Murray State University history professor emeritus tells us straight up: 'The Democrats have to remind people that next year and in 2024, democracy itself will be on trial.' And 21st century fascism will be there right beside it, under the 'R' column on the ballot."