Trump escalates crackdown by designating ‘Antifa’ a domestic terror group

The Verge
The Verge
4M ago
Trump's executive order labels Antifa a domestic terrorist organization, directing federal agencies to investigate related activities, despite its lack of formal structure.
Trump escalates crackdown by designating ‘Antifa’ a domestic terror group
A What happened
On September 22, 2025, President Trump announced an executive order designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, directing federal departments to investigate and dismantle any illegal operations associated with it. This order follows the death of conservative activist Charlie Kirk and is part of a broader Republican initiative to address perceived left-wing threats. The order claims Antifa engages in violent actions against law enforcement and promotes the overthrow of the U.S. government. However, experts highlight that Antifa is not a formal organization but a decentralized movement, which raises questions about the order's practical implications. The designation may lead to increased scrutiny of civil liberties and political speech, as Republicans push for stricter measures against liberal causes.

Key insights

  • 1

    Executive Order Impact: The order's effectiveness is uncertain due to Antifa's lack of formal organization.

  • 2

    Political Context: The order is part of a broader Republican strategy following Charlie Kirk's death.

  • 3

    Civil Liberties Concerns: The designation may lead to increased scrutiny of political speech and civil rights.

Takeaways

The designation of Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization raises significant legal and civil liberties questions.

Topics

World & Politics Elections Conflicts Governance

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