How should the military community respond to veterans like Craig Robertson?

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 02:52:45 -0400

Last week Air Force Veteran Craig Robertson was killed in an FBI raid at his home, after posting violent threats on social media including photos of guns that suggested assassination of certain political leaders. His family and neighbors say he never would have acted on those threats, he was active in his community, and he used social media to voice his grievances. How can we respond to veterans who act similar to him before things go too far?

Article for context: https://www.military.com/daily-news/2023/08/11/air-force-veteran-killed-after-threats-biden-believed-government-was-corrupt-overreaching.html

Air Force Veteran Killed After Threats to Biden Believed Government Was Corrupt, Overreaching

The family insisted in a statement that Air Force veteran Craig Deleeuw Robertson would not have acted on the threats.

Response by LTC Eugene Chu made Aug 15 at 2023 3:42 AM

LTC Eugene Chu — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 03:42:40 -0400

Personal opinion: Ensure that we know all the facts. Craig Robertson allegedly taunted the FBI and pointed a gun at agents during the raid.

https://nypost.com/2023/08/14/trump-supporter-craig-robertson-was-shot-and-killed-after-pointing-a-357-magnum-at-feds-fbi/

Trump supporter shot and killed during FBI raid was pointing .357 Magnum at feds

Craig Robertson, 75, pointed a .357 Magnum revolver at FBI agents who were executing a search warrant at his Utah home last week.

Response by SSG Michael Noll made Aug 15 at 2023 6:10 AM

SSG Michael Noll — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 06:10:02 -0400

One sided in my view, the Bidenights will support it like everything else they do.

Response by SSgt Christophe Murphy made Aug 15 at 2023 10:01 AM

SSgt Christophe Murphy — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:01:59 -0400

I'm all for free speech but when you articulate threats towards people it changes the name of the game. You certainly can't make threats towards the President or other elected people. It sounds like they were watching this guy online for a while. I would be curious as to what counts as an "arsenal" because that can be subjective.

I'm sorry for his family and for their loss but if you are holding a firearm when federal law enforcement are trying to breech it won't go well for anyone. I'd like to see the body camera footage f possible to see how everything was handled but I don't blame them for addressing a potential threat when the President was headed to a VA hospital within the immediate area.

Response by 1SG Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2023 10:15 AM

1SG Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:15:45 -0400

Being a veteran doesn't make your case any different than anyone else.

The FBI investigation began with a tip about the Bragg threat from Trump’s own social media platform Truth Social in March, after Robertson posted about “waiting in the courthouse parking garage” with a suppressed weapon and wanting to “put a nice hole in his forehead.” His account has since been suspended from the platform.
https://apnews.com/article/utah-biden-fbi-assassination-threat-ba3cc1d3b2f6cca8bd429febdcf04219

Utah man suspected of threatening President Joe Biden shot and killed as FBI served warrant

An armed Utah man accused of making violent threats against President Joe Biden was shot and killed by FBI agents hours before the president landed in the state Wednesday, authorities say.

Response by MSG Stan Hutchison made Aug 15 at 2023 10:51 AM

MSG Stan Hutchison — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 10:51:01 -0400

Federal law:

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/871

18 U.S. Code § 871 - Threats against President and successors to the Presidency

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Aug 15 at 2023 2:29 PM

SFC Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 14:29:27 -0400

Why does the military community need to respond? What can other veterans do to stop someone making threats? Especially if they are strangers? His family knew and they didn't care to do anything...saying "oh he'd never act on it." FAFO.

Response by COL Randall C. made Aug 16 at 2023 4:57 PM

COL Randall C. — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 16:57:35 -0400

I see the comments on the thread are as predictable as the numerous posts on a daily basis "attacking the other side".

SFC Private RallyPoint Member asked a question of someone if they could name a 'leftist' that publicly threatened Trump when he was president or since (not calling you out for asking the question - using it as a segway into my main point). In a quick 2-3 minute search of DOJ's cases and the Secret Service NTAC's website, I gathered quite a number: Jeffrey Boyd, Chase Colasurdo, Richard Ware, Bryan Moles, Andrew O’Keefe, Jared Brown, Steven Ford -- and the list goes on and on. I can easily pull up an extensive list for Biden, Obama, Bush, or anyone else that falls under Secret Service protection.

Regardless of who is in office, the Secret Service says that on average, there are 6-8 “more than bluster/venting” threats against the sitting President each day.

The majority of these people that do this are not "driven by political comments" someone says. They are driven because they want to blame someone for their problems, hear someone saying a message that resonates with them, and are mentally unbalanced enough to try and take it to the next level. There is a lot that goes into pushing someone like that over the edge, and comments by a politician (even repeated ones) are not going to do it.

Are Republicans, Trump, or Conservatives at fault for the actions of Craig Robertson? No.
Are Democrats, Sanders, or Liberals at fault for the actions of James Hodgkinson*? No.

Who is responsible? For many that are reading this, look in a mirror. The level of partisan demonization of "the other side" is off the charts. I see DOZENS of posts each day that are not to inform others about something that occurred, discuss issues with a view towards a resolution or any other motive other than denigrate “their political enemy”.

While many will attack “the other side” because of a policy they don’t like, the more extreme of our community will show blatant political bigotry* in anything (and everything) “the other side” does. ALL _____________ are liars, cheats, and vile human beings. How anyone could vote for ___________ is a wonder because is just shows how stupid or immoral they are.

The National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE), one of DHS’ center of excellence, did a study on “Understanding Threats to Public Officials”*. From 2013 to 2022, 501 federal charges were filed against individuals for making threats to public officials (42% of these were against elected officials, although not necessarily the President).

There was a significant uptick about a year after the last administration took over (~60%) and another about a year after the current administration took over (a bit less than 30%). Was any specific individual on the left responsible for the former or someone on the right for the later? Again, no.

But they all contribute to the problem with the divisive rhetoric.

Many on the left or right will ignore a person like Mr. Robertson or Mr. Hodgkinson unless these something showing they are "from the other side", then they focus all their attention showing that they are proof that “they” are nothing but a bunch of extremists. However, if it’s someone from “their side” that is doing it, then the partisans will attempt to distance themselves with as much alacrity as they try to tie other individuals and groups together when the roles are reversed.

Specific to SGT Private RallyPoint Member’s question. I’m in line with what SFC Private RallyPoint Member said – see something, say something (if it appears to be a genuine threat of violence and not just someone ‘popping off’). It shouldn’t matter where on the political ideological continuum the individual making those threats falls, they should be reported.

If it was someone I had a relationship with, I would likely intervene if I didn’t think that they were an immediate threat to myself or others and see if I could help them with many, many of the mental health services that are available to veterans. If they continued with violent threats (regardless of seeking help or not), it would be time to alert the authorities.

I am in line with SFC Casey O'Mally with regards to the raid on his residence. There probably was a better way - take him down when he was outside the house, wait him out, something. There are some reports that he shot at those FBI agents that came in the house, so I'm not referring to their actions inside - shoot at law enforcement and they will shoot back. I'm referring to actions they could have taken outside of the residence, ESPECIALLY since reports are saying he had quite a number of weapons in there. I figure if you're going to arrest someone with a number of firearms you would at least do it when he was separated from them.
----------------------------------------
* James Hodgkinson is the Sander’s supporter who committed a mass-shooting against the Republican team that was practicing for the annual Congressional Baseball game. https://www.secretservice.gov/sites/default/files/reports/2020-06/Hodgkinson.pdf
* National Counterterrorism Innovation, Technology, and Education Center (NCITE)
* Political Bigotry - https://www.rallypoint.com/status-updates/8176102

Hodgkinson.pdf

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Aug 16 at 2023 6:25 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:25:57 -0400

Thank you SGT Private RallyPoint Member for posting the question.
I am very sad that the FBI raided Air Force Veteran Craig Robertson's home and killed him.
Thank you my friend and brother-in-Christ COL Randall C. for mentioning me.
Hopefully Craig Robertson is resting in peace
Ian Hunter - "Rest in Peace"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-7TdLNo1b8

FYI PO3 Charles Streich PO3 Edward Riddle SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D SSgt Kelly D. PO1 Howard Barnes LTC Trent Klug Cpl Lisa Kreiser SSG Jeffrey Leake LTC Dave Leppanen SFC Ralph E Kelley SSG Robert Pratt SPC Robert Coventry CMSgt Private RallyPoint Member Maj Ronald (Ron) Scarpa MAJ Dale E. Wilson, Ph.D. SFC William Farrell Amn Dale Preisach l

Rest In Peace

Provided to YouTube by TuneCoreRest In Peace · Ian HunterThe Truth, the Whole Truth and Nuthin' but the Truth 2015 Secret RecordsReleased on: 2007-01-01Auto...

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Aug 16 at 2023 6:52 PM

SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D — Wed, 16 Aug 2023 18:52:59 -0400

As a combat veteran with PTSD, In my humble opinion, a resolution to this situation should have been psychiatricly and compassionately resolved. My prayers go out to him and his family and my disappointment go to the current Administration who lack compassion, understanding and common sense when dealing with people suffering from mental infirmities as a result of defending our Country and its' freedoms, only to die at home for their heroism.

Response by PO3 Deborah Rosen made Sep 15 at 2023 1:13 PM

PO3 Deborah Rosen — Fri, 15 Sep 2023 13:13:19 -0400

If you were in the hot seat to make that call, how would you respond? You have multiple reports of a man making politically-motivated threats of violence against a sitting official (btw, that meets the FBI's criteria for terrorism). You find extensive evidence through investigation of financials, social media and more that he is most definitely armed and knows how to use his firearms, also evidence of extremist rhetoric and radicalization into ideologies the FBI has identified as homegrown terrorist ideology. He has means and motive, is waiting for opportunity. Your organization has a history of dealing with armed and dangerous people, with beef against government, who are potentially fortified in their residences, and you have no idea what you're walking into but it's a fair bet the dude isn't going to be reasonable - and assuming that he will be is asking your people to assume an unreasonable amount of risk.

What would your call be? Really?

Response by SSG Ken Potts made Sep 27 at 2023 8:28 PM

SSG Ken Potts — Wed, 27 Sep 2023 20:28:37 -0400

First of all, that's what all families say until the person goes and follows through with their threats. All you can do is try and get them some mental health care.

Response by SFC James High made Sep 28 at 2023 10:04 AM

SFC James High — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 10:04:12 -0400

Someone should have been paying attention to his behavior so they could notice changes and then be able to address them with him directly before he made the threats on Social media. Obviously he opened up on the FBI or at least pointed a firearm at them for them to return fire. I could have been a case of suicide by cop! what ever it was it is fair to say there was some mental issues involved.

Response by Sgt Randall Hartwick made Sep 28 at 2023 8:38 PM

Sgt Randall Hartwick — Thu, 28 Sep 2023 20:38:44 -0400

Why would you arrest him at his home where you KNOW he has weapons. Wait outside and arrest him right after he leaves his driveway.

Response by SGT Kenneth Rand made Sep 29 at 2023 1:16 AM

SGT Kenneth Rand — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 01:16:11 -0400

Can we act the same way to leftists that threaten to take people's children to reeducation camps for being Republican, because threatening child abduction is just as bad if not worse. However I never believe a verbal threat of violence is actually violence I've never actually been hurt or damaged by a word. I believe ever American has the right to voice their opinions and feelings. especially when they feel like they have been mistreated by those sworn to have their best interest at heart. The first amendment is there for a reason it's so we can voice our distain without fear of repercussion or being harmed for our opinions and beliefs. Remember in America it isn't until fairly recent times that town hall meetings are unarmed.

Response by SGT Loren Hammons made Sep 29 at 2023 11:23 AM

SGT Loren Hammons — Fri, 29 Sep 2023 11:23:40 -0400

He used a threat of violence, this caused the issue. The FBI does not know he would not carry through with that. Let the investigation continue and remind troops not to use social media to communicate threats.

Response by SGT Jeff Everhart made Sep 30 at 2023 3:59 AM

SGT Jeff Everhart — Sat, 30 Sep 2023 03:59:12 -0400

Both sides have an interests in promoting a point of view. Just like the female Air Force veteran who forced herself into the capital through a broken window.

Response by SPC Max Waller made Oct 1 at 2023 9:28 PM

SPC Max Waller — Sun, 01 Oct 2023 21:28:48 -0400

ask questions about their current quality of life especially how it is indirectly and directly affected by unelected officials and elected officials i firmly believe that a lot of our fellow military veterans eventually become fully aware with the negative/destructive consequences of the unethical along with corrupt and selfish deeds of unelected officials and elected officials regardless of the political affiliation that eventually benefits few, thus, it is a reason for all forms of backlash. overall he officials including the Commander in Chief never gets punished for all kinds of criminal activities including war crimes - Craig Robertson probably just became extremely disillusioned just like Timothy McVeigh and Terry Nichols. i am now disenchanted after becoming aware of the evils by those that are supposed to be worthy of emulating.

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Oct 2 at 2023 12:56 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 00:56:24 -0400

A.) Violent Domestic Extremist Groups and the Recruitment of Veterans.”

SOURCE : https://www.congress.gov/117/meeting/house/113968/witnesses/HHRG-117-VR00-Wstate-JonesS-20211013.pdf

B.) Summary of Terrorism Threat to the U.S. Homeland

SOURCE : https://www.dhs.gov/ntas/advisory/national-terrorism-advisory-system-bulletin-february-07-2022

Key factors contributing to the current heightened threat environment include:

1. The proliferation of false or misleading narratives, which sow discord or undermine public trust in U.S. government institutions:
* For example, there is widespread online proliferation of false or misleading narratives regarding unsubstantiated widespread election fraud and COVID-19. Grievances associated with these themes inspired violent extremist attacks during 2021.
* Malign foreign powers have and continue to amplify these false or misleading narratives in efforts to damage the United States.

2. Continued calls for violence directed at U.S. critical infrastructure; soft targets and mass gatherings; faith-based institutions, such as churches, synagogues, and mosques; institutions of higher education; racial and religious minorities; government facilities and personnel, including law enforcement and the military; the media; and perceived ideological opponents:
* Foreign terrorist organizations and domestic threat actors continue to amplify pre-existing false or misleading narratives online to sow discord and undermine public trust in government institutions. Some of these actors do so to encourage unrest, which could lead to acts of violence against the facilities, individuals, institutions, and organizations cited above.
* Violent extremists inspired by a range of grievances and ideologies continue to target crowded venues traditionally perceived to be soft targets, such as commercial and publicly accessible facilities, public gatherings, certain government and state facilities, and houses of worship.
* The recent attack on a synagogue in Colleyville, Texas highlights the continuing threat of violence based upon racial or religious motivations, as well as threats against faith-based organizations.
* Threats directed at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other colleges and universities, Jewish facilities, and churches cause concern and may inspire extremist threat actors to mobilize to violence.
* As COVID-19 restrictions continue to decrease nationwide, increased access to commercial and government facilities and the rising number of mass gatherings could provide increased opportunities for individuals looking to commit acts of violence to do so, often with little or no warning. Meanwhile, COVID-19 mitigation measures—particularly COVID-19 vaccine and mask mandates—have been used by domestic violent extremists to justify violence since 2020 and could continue to inspire these extremists to target government, healthcare, and academic institutions that they associate with those measures.
* Domestic violent extremists have also viewed attacks against U.S. critical infrastructure as a means to create chaos and advance ideological goals, and have recently aspired to disrupt U.S. electric and communications critical infrastructure, including by spreading false or misleading narratives about 5G cellular technology.
* Some domestic violent extremists have continued to advocate for violence in response to false or misleading narratives about unsubstantiated election fraud. The months preceding the upcoming 2022 midterm elections could provide additional opportunities for these extremists and other individuals to call for violence directed at democratic institutions, political candidates, party offices, election events, and election workers.
* A small number of threat actors are attempting to use the evacuation and resettlement of Afghan nationals following the U.S. military withdrawal from Afghanistan last year as a means to exacerbate long-standing grievances and justify attacks against immigrants.

3. Calls by foreign terrorist organizations for attacks on the United States based on recent events:
* Foreign terrorist organizations will likely continue to maintain a highly visible online presence to attempt to inspire U.S.-based individuals to engage in violent activity.
* Supporters of foreign terrorist organizations have encouraged copycat attacks following the January 15, 2022 attack on a synagogue in Colleyville, Texas.
* Foreign terrorists remain intent on targeting the United States and U.S. persons, and may seek to capitalize on the evolving security environment overseas to plot attacks. The Islamic State of Iraq and ash-Sham (ISIS) or its affiliates may issue public calls for retaliation due to the strike that recently killed ISIS leader Abu Ibrahim al-Hashimi al-Qurayshi.

HHRG-117-VR00-Wstate-JonesS-20211013.pdf

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Oct 2 at 2023 1:00 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:00:58 -0400

They saw something.
They’ve said something.

https://youtu.be/qr5S7D_cKp4

1.) Ron DeSantis
State guard set up by DeSantis is being trained as personal militia, veterans say

Veterans resign from force established as civilian disaster relief, citing concerns over ‘militaristic’ training and ‘abuse’
Richard Luscombe in Miami
@richlusc
Sat 15 Jul 2023 13.54 EDT

A Florida state guard established by the rightwing governor, Ron DeSantis, under the guise of a civilian disaster relief force is instead being trained as an armed, combat-ready militia under his personal command, according to military veteran recruits who have quit the program.

Several veterans resigned after an encampment last month having become concerned at the “militaristic” training and “abuse” one disabled veteran suffered at the hands of instructors, according to an investigation by the Miami Herald and Tampa Bay Times.

Promoted by DeSantis as an “emergency focused, civilian defense force” when it was established in June 2022, the state guard has quickly morphed into something quite different, the report found.

Volunteers have been trained for military combat, including the use of weapons; khaki polo shirts and pants were replaced by camouflage uniforms; and recruits were “barked at” by boot camp instructors at the joint training base who woke them before dawn and imposed lights-out by 10pm.

Additionally, DeSantis’s compliant, Republican-led state legislature has contributed to the change of direction, this year approving a massive expansion in the force’s funding, size and equipment. Its budget increased from $10m to $107.5m, and its maximum size more than tripled from 400 recruits to 1,500.

On the governor’s shopping list were helicopters, boats, police powers and reportedly even cellphone-hacking technology for a force outside of federal jurisdiction, and accountable directly to him.

“The program got hijacked and turned into something that we were trying to stay away from: a militia,” Brian Newhouse, a retired navy veteran with 20 years’ experience, told the reporters.

Newhouse was originally chosen to lead one of the state guard’s three divisions, and said he was removed from the base near Jacksonville on the first day of training after raising his concerns with national guard staff who were acting as instructors.

SOURCE : https://amp.theguardian.com/us-news/2023/jul/15/ron-desantis-florida-state-guard-militia-veterans-quit

1A.) Turmoil in Florida’s New State Guard, as Some Recruits Quit

Some who volunteered for the force commissioned by Gov. Ron DeSantis said the group, billed as a natural disaster relief organization, had become too militarized.

But the deployment this spring has been mired in internal turmoil, with some recruits complaining that what was supposed to be a civilian disaster response organization had become heavily militarized, requiring volunteers to participate in marching drills and military-style training sessions on weapons and hand-to-hand combat.

At least 20 percent of the 150 people initially accepted into the program dropped out or were dismissed, state officials acknowledged, including a retired Marine captain who filed a false imprisonment complaint against Guard sergeants with the local sheriff after he got into a dispute with instructors and was forcibly escorted off the site.

Several of those who left and spoke to The New York Times said they objected to the direction the organization was taking and either quit or were fired when they tried to voice their concerns.

Mr. DeSantis, to whom the new State Guard reports directly, has suggested that concerns over the organization’s future role are unwarranted.

“If you turned on NBC, it was ‘DeSantis is raising an army, and he’s going to raze the planet,’” Mr. DeSantis told reporters last year. “But, you know, the response from people was ‘Oh, hell, he’s raising an army? I want to join! Let’s do it.’”

SOURCE : https://www.nytimes.com/2023/07/15/us/florida-state-guard-desantis.html

2.) Dueling Ads: Trump and DeSantis on Social Security and Medicare
By Robert Farley
Posted on April 20, 2023 | Updated on April 21, 202

SOURCE : https://www.factcheck.org/2023/04/dueling-ads-trump-and-desantis-on-social-security-and-medicare/

3.) Veterans quit DeSantis’ Florida State Guard over militialike training

One retired Marine Corps officer called the police on instructors, alleging abuse.

SOURCE : https://www.ar15.com/forums/General/Turmoil-in-Florida-s-New-State-Guard-as-Some-Recruits-Quit/5-2659014/

* Governor Ron DeSantis Signs Legislation to Honor Victims of Communism and Preserve

* History of the Freedom Tower On May 9, 2022,

SOURCE : https://www.flgov.com/2022/05/09/governor-ron-desantis-signs-legislation-to-honor-victims-of-communism-and-preserve-history-of-the-freedom-tower/#:~:text=MIAMI%20–%20Today%2C%20Governor%20Ron%20DeSantis,communist%20regimes%20across%20the%20world.

Army Veteran CALLS OUT Ron DeSantis, goes MEGAVIRAL

In today’s episode, Ken Harbaugh talks with the Army veteran who called out Ron DeSantis for saying he would “start slitting throats” on day 1 of his preside...

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Oct 2 at 2023 1:17 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Mon, 02 Oct 2023 01:17:12 -0400

V1 : https://www.youtube.com/live/tpiON4c37_4?si=r1UeiWy6uLBTcWjD

V2: https://youtu.be/yTEEcD05UkQ?si=bQ-GnuDUNPoV2prq

1.) Lawmakers urge action as domestic extremist groups seek to recruit U.S. veterans

PUBLISHED 7:07 PM ET OCT. 13, 2021

The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs heard testimony on Wednesday about efforts by violent domestic extremist groups to recruit U.S. veterans – a concerning trend that has prompted reviews from both the Pentagon and members of Congress.

What You Need To Know

* The House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs heard testimony on Wednesday about efforts by violent domestic extremist groups to recruit U.S. veterans

* Domestic terror plots and attacks in the U.S. have soared to a 25-year high, according to an analysis from The Washington Post and the Center for Strategic and International Studies

* At least 80 people with military backgrounds have been linked to domestic extremism this year, according to the University of Maryland – up from just 30 people in 2020, and less than 10 people in 2019

* While militant groups’ courting of veterans is not a new phenomenon, witnesses said Wednesday that the rise of social media and other online platforms has exacerbated both the scope and speed of their recruitment efforts

The hearing comes as domestic terror plots and attacks in the U.S. have soared to a 25-year high, according to an analysis from The Washington Post and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, including 73 domestic terror incidents in 2020 alone – an all-time high.

At least 80 people with military backgrounds have been linked to domestic extremism this year, according to new data from the University of Maryland – up from just 30 people the previous year, and less than 10 in 2019.
Witnesses at Wednesday's hearing noted the number of veterans involved in the storming of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6.

“Of the more than 620 arrested [in connection to the Capitol breach], 71 had ties to the military community — representing 12% of the mob,” retired Marine Corps Lt. Col. Joe Plenzler said on Wednesday. “Of those, one was active duty, two were in the National Guard, and two were in the reserves. Sixty-six were veterans.”

Asked Wednesday if domestic extremist groups purposefully focus target veterans in their recruitment efforts, Plenzler said, “Yes, absolutely they do.”

Veterans are “really efficient targets for recruitment … for what we bring to the table," he said. “Besides tactics, the techniques and procedures, that we all have studied — especially those of us who have been in ground combat units, that's a very attractive thing for people who want to destabilize our government to seek out — [recruiters] also know that veterans are extremely relational, and that we were seen as leaders in the community.

So if they can get one of us to come along, the chances of getting others to follow are probably pretty good.”
“We do know that they specifically target veterans who are having trouble with their transition from the military to the civilian world, because they're particularly vulnerable at that point," he said.

SOURCE : https://ny1.com/nyc/all-boroughs/national-politics/2021/10/13/lawmakers-urge-action-as-domestic-extremist-groups-seek-to-recruit-u-s--veterans

2.) National Terrorism Advisory System National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin - May 24, 2023

Date Issued: May 24, 2023 at 2:00 PM ET  View as PDF: National Terrorism Advisory System Bulletin - Issued May 24, 2023 at 2:00pm ET (pdf, 1 pages, 287.83 KB)

Summary of Terrorism-Related Threat to the United States

The United States remains in a heightened threat environment. Lone offenders and small groups motivated by a range of ideological beliefs and personal grievances continue to pose a persistent and lethal threat to the Homeland. Both domestic violent extremists (DVEs) and those associated with foreign terrorist organizations continue to attempt to motivate supporters to conduct attacks in the Homeland, including through violent extremist messaging and online calls for violence. In the coming months, factors that could mobilize individuals to commit violence include their perceptions of the 2024 general election cycle and legislative or judicial decisions pertaining to sociopolitical issues. Likely targets of potential violence include US critical infrastructure, faith-based institutions, individuals or events associated with the LGBTQIA+ community, schools, racial and ethnic minorities, and government facilities and personnel, including law enforcement.

Additional Information

* In May 2023, a now-deceased individual killed eight and injured seven others at an outlet mall in Allen, Texas. Law enforcement continues to investigate the motive behind the attack, but initial reporting suggests the attacker fixated on mass shootings and held views consistent with racially or ethnically motivated violent extremist (RMVE) and involuntary celibate violent extremist ideologies.

* In March 2023, a now-deceased individual shot and killed six people at a Christian elementary school in Nashville, Tennessee. Law enforcement continues to investigate the motive behind the attack and has indicated the individual studied other mass murderers.

* Also in March 2023, a RMVE driven by a belief in the superiority of the white race was arrested and charged with allegedly attempting to use an improvised incendiary device to burn down a church in Ohio that was planning to host a drag-themed event.

* In February 2023, two RMVEs driven by a belief in the superiority of the white race were arrested and are now awaiting trial for plotting an attack against electrical substations in Maryland. These arrests followed a series of recent attacks against electrical infrastructure, which some DVEs have praised and leveraged to call for more attacks on critical infrastructure.

* Since spring of 2022, alleged DVEs in Georgia have cited anarchist violent extremism, animal rights/environmental violent extremism, and anti-law enforcement sentiment to justify criminal activity in opposition to a planned public safety training facility in Atlanta. Criminal acts have included an alleged shooting and assaults targeting law enforcement and property damage targeting the facility, construction companies, and financial institutions for their perceived involvement with the planned facility.

* Meanwhile, foreign terrorists continue to use media to call for lone offender attacks in the West, condemn US foreign policy, and attempt to expand their reach and grow global support networks. Most recently, in January 2023, an individual from Maine who was inspired by a variety of foreign terrorist content was charged with federal crimes for an attack on New York City Police Department (NYPD) officers during New Year’s Eve celebrations in Times Square

SOURCE : https://www.dhs.gov/ntas/advisory/national-terrorism-advisory-system-bulletin-may-24-2023

WATCH LIVE: Lawmakers examine how domestic extremist groups recruit veterans

Stream your PBS favorites with the PBS app: https://to.pbs.org/2Jb8twGFind more from PBS NewsHour at https://www.pbs.org/newshourSubscribe to our YouTube cha...

Response by CPT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 3 at 2023 4:40 AM

CPT Private RallyPoint Member — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 04:40:48 -0400

Personally, I would deduct is pay by 90 percent. Had to do that to a soldier last week for giving me lip. I overheard he missed his car payment last week. This week he lost a stripe. Cha ching

Response by A1C Kevin McKay made Oct 3 at 2023 2:31 PM

A1C Kevin McKay — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 14:31:41 -0400

You can voice your grievances about any issue without using threats of any form of violence…veteran or not. Question should be why are Americans so quick to respond with violent threats? If you can’t get your point across without having to rely solely n violence, perhaps you should reevaluate your tact or the point you are trying to make. Nothing truly good comes from violent means.

Response by MAJ Roger Frick made Oct 4 at 2023 12:47 PM

MAJ Roger Frick — Wed, 04 Oct 2023 12:47:42 -0400

Well said Colonel Cudworth!

Response by SSG Gregg Mourizen made Oct 6 at 2023 12:52 AM

SSG Gregg Mourizen — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 00:52:29 -0400

"How can we respond to veterans who act similar to him before things go too far?"
"We" as a community can tell the veteran that such language or content is inappropriate.
That such actions are inappropriate.
Such threats are inappropriate.
Use whatever language or wording you want.
Just remember, the idea is to talk someone down, not put them down. We don't know what is going through their heads. PTSD, and other mental disorders need to be dealt with, before a situation or problem escalates to irrational levels.
Of course, if you think a threat is valid enough to report, report it.
How many mass shootings could have been prevented, if someone just spoke up.
How many times were the red flags ignored to "protect his future"

Response by CAPT Edward Schmitt made Oct 6 at 2023 12:20 PM

CAPT Edward Schmitt — Fri, 06 Oct 2023 12:20:16 -0400

I personally think there may have been FBI over-reaction. Nevertheless if you do stupid stuff and make violent threats accept that there may be stupid consequences

Response by CPL Drake Bowan made Oct 8 at 2023 6:19 AM

CPL Drake Bowan — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 06:19:48 -0400

While he is right, about govt corruption, he needed help. I'm not suggesting assassination is the best course, but for God's sake, his family should've stepped in and gotten him committed.

Response by CPL Drake Bowan made Oct 8 at 2023 6:20 AM

CPL Drake Bowan — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 06:20:33 -0400

The question remains:

Would the FBI do this if it was Trump?

Response by SGT Mike Churchill made Oct 8 at 2023 8:01 PM

SGT Mike Churchill — Sun, 08 Oct 2023 20:01:46 -0400

Here is my take on the story:
Why did they have to say "Trump supporter...?" Why couldn't have just been "Nut job killed during FBI investigation of threats made to President." ?
My point is that the media should not put their political bias in everything. The news should only tell the facts of what happened, not try to sway people to one side or the other.
Greats like Walter Cronkite would just tell you the news, now they tell you the news then try to tell you how you should feel about it

Response by SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D made Oct 15 at 2023 2:05 PM

SPC Michael Duricko, Ph.D — Sun, 15 Oct 2023 14:05:20 -0400

An immediate amd comprehensive examination of his complete medical and police, if applicable, files. Next try to have a Psychiatrist communicate with him and the result might very well be a chronic mental situation that triggered his social media output. Most of us have weapons we personally and legally own and may even use harsh rhetoric on social media patforms without any consideration at all of ever inciting violence. It should have been pursued further verbally if no physical threats were imminent. Might have been a good resolution to the problem with the individual realizing there could be consequences to his verbal accusations.

Response by Capt Clay Parcels made Nov 2 at 2023 11:53 AM

Capt Clay Parcels — Thu, 02 Nov 2023 11:53:58 -0400

Short answer, it’s an extreme overreaction and possibly emblematic of the “weaponization” of federal agencies. I’m familiar with Protection of the President, but my active duty time was far prior to social media (which is in itself a “pox on humanity “ in my opinion. But if you are deploying the type of response described, due diligence and being respectful of government resources should have dictated more research by the FBI. Simply going by social media posts to mount such an assault is irresponsible. Based on media posts, send two agents out to knock on doors and interview neighbors, like the old days. Apparently no one did that. They likely would have saved his life and avoided the expense of such a response. Based on what the neighbors said, if I were a field agent I would have let it go or even knocked on his door to talk with him and warn him how today’s government views his posts.

Response by SSG Ivan Centola made Nov 3 at 2023 5:40 AM

SSG Ivan Centola — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 05:40:29 -0400

I rarely answer to any social media, but in this case, I think I should chime in. First, Social Media is a double cut blade that in most cases is used to harm and not to help. We have taken a possibly useful tool and turned it against ourselves as with a gun when we want to commit suicide. With that said, freedom of speech is everyone god given right, but unfortunately, we have blurred the lines between freedom and respect. In the military we take an oath to protect, defend, and respect the Constitution and the American Government, this includes political representatives. As uniformed members, we forfeit the right to make certain comments while in uniform. In the UCMJ it is clearly indicated that we cannot denigrate our leaders, this is called insubordination. We still have the right to voice our opinions, but it must be done in an orderly fashion addressing the individuals with respect and facts to sustain our points and due diligence. Screaming out on Social media is not the place to do these things, we are bound to find extremists who are willing to go too far many times to achieve their points of view. The right thing to do is mobilize your community around you, lay out your points, and bring people to share your opinion in a peaceful way then when you have enough support use the system that we promote around the world, Democracy. He voiced his grievances, but as a military leader did he provide alternatives to solve the issues? Why is it that when the FBI or any law enforcement agency in the US closes in on a target like this it always turns out violent or with casualties? These are questions we should ask. We are all sad about a tragic ending. Could have been avoided?

Response by SGT Greg Gold made Nov 5 at 2023 9:51 AM

SGT Greg Gold — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 09:51:04 -0500

The Craig Robertson incident is just another example of 'play stupid games, win stupid prizes.'

Response by LT William Pellegrini made Nov 5 at 2023 1:59 PM

LT William Pellegrini — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 13:59:30 -0500

I find it interesting that his reputation among his neighbors was in direct contradiction to the post on line. It is unfortunate, but the world we currently live in has been poisoned by radical far right conservatives. Most of whom seem to be Republican Party Members, that are hell bent on destroying the Constitution and insert a Fascist Dictator as President. The problem lies in our news outlets. They no longer actually report the FACTS, just the FACTS about anything that the Government does. If it is a Republican Government then all is gloriously fine, unless you happen to be a member of the 80+ % of the people who are underpaid workers as some dead end job. But the propaganda is broadcast over the air by every means possible. If you understand that saying something that is simply made up from whole cloth long enough people begin to believe it. That is my guess on what happened to Craig Robertson. Unfortunately, the FBI has a history of not taking actions against those who have polluted our information streams and acted to shut them down. If not shut them down then at least expose them for what they are, Fascist or Dictator strong men propaganda outlets. Since the number and severity of the far right propaganda incited mass shootings has escalated in recent months the FBI is under pressure to act. So they act. Now why there was a gun battle in this case I have no inkling so have nothing worth commenting on. If the victim resisted arrest or came at the FBI with weapons on or ablazeing then he made a mistake that cost him his life. The question becomes how do we stop such events from occurring in the future? All I can think of is right the wrong.
If you someone is spouting or shouting some bogus rant that he possibly heard on X or some other right wing propaganda outlet your ability to counter effectively is greatly handicapped. All you can do is spend a bit of time to look up the subject and see what sources other than Fox News or hard right wing so called news outlets are spewing, and then see what the far right outlets are spewing. Compare the two. If the left wing stuff is based on proveable fact then feel free to engage in a most likely useless discussion with the person. Don't insist you are correct, but suggest he look up other sources on the issue and get a full perspective, not just accept what he heard or saw on TV or the Web. Nothing else one can do, except maybe get hold of a bullet proof armored suit. If the extreme right wing wins the next election two things will happen. First, it will be the last election, free election of government. Second, it will become open season on people who are opposed to fascist dictatorships. You can bet that someone is making sure that those people are muzzled one way or another. Have a great week.

Response by SGT Wayne Grindstaff made Nov 5 at 2023 7:59 PM

SGT Wayne Grindstaff — Sun, 05 Nov 2023 19:59:15 -0500

My feelings and thoughts are never put on the Internet, or on social media. As a matter of fact I still use a flip phone. So when the light turns green I go, instead of playing with a cell phone. JMO

Response by SGT Jodi WittBailey made Nov 14 at 2023 8:27 AM

SGT Jodi WittBailey — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 08:27:27 -0500

Segue

Response by LTC George Morgan made Nov 15 at 2023 6:45 AM

LTC George Morgan — Wed, 15 Nov 2023 06:45:41 -0500

Based on threats you have to follow through. Assumption has to be that they will act. If it is not checked and they kill someone then where are you. No bringing the individual back. If they are not dangerous and do not resist then no problem. Lesson do not let your mouth overload bottom. Suggest people grow up and learn lessons from it.

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Dec 9 at 2023 8:12 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:12:24 -0500

1.) At least 25 Americans were killed during protests and political unrest in 2020

Findings from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data raise concerns about continued violence during and after Election Day

At least 11 Americans have been killed while participating in political demonstrations this year and another 14 have died in other incidents linked to political unrest, according to new data from a non-profit monitoring political unrest in the United States.

Nine of the people killed during protests were demonstrators taking part in Black Lives Matter protests. Two were conservatives killed after pro-Trump “patriot rallies”. All but one were killed by fellow citizens.

Violence at US protests

The new data on fatalities and violence at American protests comes from a database created by the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data project (ACLED), a non-profit, working in collaboration with a group of researchers at Princeton.

Most of the protesters killed this year were shot to death, and many of the incidents involved confrontations at protests that escalated and turned deadly when at least one of the people involved had a gun.

SOURCE : https://amp.theguardian.com/world/2020/oct/31/americans-killed-protests-political-unrest-acled

2.) Demonstrations and Political Violence in America: New Data for Summer 2020

Introduction

The United States is at heightened risk of political violence and instability going into the 2020 general election. Mass shootings hit a record high last year (BBC, 29 December 2019), violent hate crimes are on the rise (Al Jazeera, 13 November 2019), and police killings continue unabated, at 2.5 times the rate1 for Black men as for white men (FiveThirtyEight, 1 June 2020; Nature, 19 June 2020).

The COVID-19 pandemic has killed well over 180,000 (New York Times, 3 September 2020) and disrupted the economy, while George Floyd’s death in police custody has sparked a massive wave of protest across the country.

AN OVERWHELMINGLY PEACEFUL MOVEMENT

The vast majority of demonstration events associated with the BLM movement are non-violent (see map below). In more than 93% of all demonstrations connected to the movement, demonstrators have not engaged in violence or destructive activity. Peaceful protests are reported in over 2,400 distinct locations around the country.

Violent demonstrations,6 meanwhile, have been limited to fewer than 220 locations — under 10% of the areas that experienced peaceful protests. In many urban areas like Portland, Oregon, for example, which has seen sustained unrest since Floyd’s killing, violent demonstrations are largely confined to specific blocks, rather than dispersed throughout the city (CNN, 1 September 2020).

Yet, despite data indicating that demonstrations associated with the BLM movement are overwhelmingly peaceful, one recent poll suggested that 42% of respondents believe “most protesters [associated with the BLM movement] are trying to incite violence or destroy property” (FiveThirtyEight, 5 June 2020).

This is in line with the Civiqs tracking poll which finds that “net approval for the Black Lives Matter movement peaked back on June 3 [the week following the killing of George Floyd when riots first began to be reported] and has fallen sharply since” (USA Today, 31 August 2020; Civiqs, 29 August 2020).

Research from the University of Washington indicates that this disparity stems from political orientation and biased media framing (Washington Post, 24 August 2020), such as disproportionate coverage of violent demonstrations (Business Insider, 11 June 2020; Poynter, 25 June 2020).

Groups like the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) have documented organized disinformation campaigns aimed at spreading a “deliberate mischaracterization of groups or movements [involved in the protests], such as portraying activists who support Black Lives Matter as violent extremists or claiming that antifa is a terrorist organization coordinated or manipulated by nebulous external forces” (ADL, 2020).

These disinformation campaigns may be contributing to the decline in public support for the BLM movement after the initial increase following Floyd’s killing, especially amongst the white population (USA Today, 31 August 2020; Civiqs, 30 August 2020a, 30 August 2020b).

This waning support also comes as the Trump administration recently shifted its “law and order” messaging to target local Democratic Party politicians from urban areas, particularly on the campaign trail (NPR, 27 August 2020).

[ Despite the media focus on looting and vandalism, however, there is little evidence to suggest that demonstrators have engaged in widespread violence. In some cases where demonstrations did turn violent, there are reports of agents provocateurs — or infiltrators — instigating the violence. During a demonstration on 27 May in Minneapolis, for example, a man with an umbrella — dubbed the ‘umbrella man’ by the media and later identified as a member of the Hells Angels linked to the Aryan Cowboys, a white supremacist prison and street gang — was seen smashing store windows (Forbes, 30 May 2020; KSTP, 28 July 2020).

It was one of the first reports of destructive activity that day, and it “created an atmosphere of hostility and tension” that helped spark an outbreak of looting following initially peaceful protests, according to police investigators, who believe the man “wanted to sow discord and racial unrest” (New York Times, 28 July 2020).

In another example on 29 May in Detroit, a number of non-residents reportedly traveled to the city to engage in violent behavior during a demonstration, leading to multiple arrests (MLive, 2 June 2020).

SOURCE : https://acleddata.com/2020/09/03/demonstrations-political-violence-in-america-new-data-for-summer-2020/

At least 25 Americans were killed during protests and political unrest in 2020 | Protest | The...

Findings from Armed Conflict Location and Event Data raise concerns about continued violence during and after election day

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Dec 9 at 2023 8:17 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:17:16 -0500

* “The left-wing groups arose during the late 1960's, whereas right-wing groups have been a problem throughout much of the Nation's history.”

* They both also recruit from the military and prison populations. Their criminal offenses are similar and include bombings, murder of law enforcement officers, and attacks on government installations. Both types of groups pose a danger to the United States and need to be monitored.

* However, right-wing groups have greater potential for mounting a significant effort because they espouse traditional American values.

1.) Comparative Analysis of Violent Left-and Right-Wing Extremist Groups in the United States

NCJ Number 103194

Author(s)
M Blumberg
Date Published 1986
Length 19 pages
Annotation

The violent extremist groups on both the left and the right in the United States have both similarities and significant differences in their ideologies, goals, tactics, membership, recruitment techniques, and involvement in violent criminal activity.

Abstract

The left-wing groups arose during the late 1960's, whereas right-wing groups have been a problem throughout much of the Nation's history.

Left-wing groups emphasize class struggle and support for people in the Third World, whereas right-wing groups often believe in-white supremacy, extremes of Christianity and patriotism, and involvement in the survivalist movement.

Both extremes are antidemocratic, see their mission as bringing about the revolution, and blame all the Nation's problems on a particular group. Leftists usually have urban backgrounds, are highly educated, and include blacks. Extreme right-wing groups consist entirely of white Christians and are often blue-collar and poorly educated. Both types of groups exploit legitimate political issues to attract members.

They both also recruit from the military and prison populations. Their criminal offenses are similar and include bombings, murder of law enforcement officers, and attacks on government installations. Both types of groups pose a danger to the United States and need to be monitored. However, right-wing groups have greater potential for mounting a significant effort because they espouse traditional American values. 3 notes and 22 references.

SOURCE : https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/comparative-analysis-violent-left-and-right-wing-extremist-groups

Reading from the same script

2.) SUBCOMMITTEE CHAIR BISHOP: “IT’S PAST TIME WE RECOGNIZE LEFT-WING VIOLENCE FOR WHAT IT IS”
May 16, 2023

SOURCE : https://homeland.house.gov/2023/05/16/subcommittee-chair-bishop-its-past-time-we-recognize-left-wing-violence-for-what-it-is/

3.) Radical Right vs. Radical Left: Terrorist Theory and Threat

NCJ Number 125094

Journal Police Chief Volume: 57 Issue: 8 Dated: (August 1990) Pages: 70-75
Author(s)
T Strentz
Date Published 1990
Length 6 pages

Annotation
This comparison of leftwing and rightwing terrorist group activities and personalities in the United States concludes that predictive generalizations can be made regarding the overall structure and functioning of domestic terrorist organizations.

Abstract

Left Wing Extremism :

Radical leftwing groups generally consist of persons who are single, separated, or divorced. Many are involved in a subconscious conflict with their parents, and terrorist group membership provides them with an expression for this rebellion.

Members of leftwing groups tend to be better educated than members of rightwing groups.

Right Wing Extremism :
On the other hand, radical rightwing groups frequently include entire families and are somewhat like cults. Leftist groups engage in protracted sessions of self-criticism, while rightist groups spend their time reinforcing their self-image as genuine and dedicated.

Those on the right tend to be more compulsive, while those on the left are more meticulous planners.

Rightwing groups tend to be more violent, although leftwing groups more frequently target law enforcement as the willing tool of the oppressive regime.

Both left and right groups try to achieve some level of solidarity with similarly oriented political organizations.

* Leftist groups are concentrated in the eastern part of the United States and in urban areas, while rightist groups are more commonly found in rural areas.

Leftwing groups tend to be atheistic or agnostic, and rightwing terrorists are usually radical fundamentalists who seek to justify their actions with quotes from the scriptures. 16 references.

SOURCE : https://www.ojp.gov/ncjrs/virtual-library/abstracts/radical-right-vs-radical-left-terrorist-theory-and-threat

Comparative Analysis of Violent Left-and Right-Wing Extremist Groups in the United States |...

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Dec 9 at 2023 8:21 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:21:58 -0500

V1 : https://youtu.be/EM8t0aaaFMc?si=V7kRMQRZOwJFi-Sv

V2 : https://youtu.be/qOHl_u8r5oE?si=_NMzL2Y_AyNvtrog

V3 : https://youtu.be/X4G7asMHqZ4?si=4oINuaf0HRqY-Nws

1.) MAGA movement
United States political movement

MAGA movement, in full Make America Great Again movement, nativist political movement that emerged in the United States during the 2016 presidential campaign of its putative leader, Donald Trump. Its name is derived from Trump’s 2016 campaign slogan “Make America Great Again,” which became a rallying cry for many Trump supporters during his candidacy, presidency (2017–21), and beyond.

The MAGA movement (often referred to simply as MAGA, or Make America Great Again), was founded on the belief that the United States was once a “great” country but has lost this status owing to foreign influence, both within its borders (via immigration and multiculturalism) and without (via globalization, or the increased integration of multiple national economies).

MAGA members think that this fall from grace can be reversed through “America first” policies that would provide a greater degree of economic protectionism, greatly reduce immigration, particularly from developing countries, and encourage or enforce what MAGA members consider to be traditional American values.

Some MAGA-supported policies, such as Trump’s call in 2015 for a “total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States,” would involve egregious racial or religious discrimination. (Some of the policies eventually adopted by the Trump administration did entail such discriminatory treatment of nonwhite immigrants; see below.)

In addition to its political stances, the MAGA movement is known for its particularly combative character, which exemplifies the extreme partisanship of contemporary American politics. In keeping with that stance, controversial rhetoric has flourished within the movement, including messages that critics see as homophobic, sexist, or racist or as inciting violence.

The MAGA movement is also known for having an antagonistic relationship with mainstream news media, which are thought by a majority in the movement to be biased against MAGA views, at best, and to be lying on behalf of the movement’s enemies, at worst. This belief has resulted in a vulnerability among MAGA members to false news stories and particularly far-fetched conspiracy theories circulated by MAGA-supporting media outlets and repeated by MAGA leaders. Examples include charges that Democratic former president Barack Obama is not a native-born U.S. citizen (“birtherism”), that Democrats’ immigration policies aim to replace white Americans with nonwhite immigrants (see replacement theory), that the 2020 presidential election was stolen from Trump by Democrats through massive voter fraud, and that the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, in which a mob of Trump supporters attempted to halt Congress’s certification of Democrat Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 presidential election, was actually staged by left-wing forces.

A variant of the phrase “Make America Great Again” was first popularized by Republican Pres. Ronald Reagan, who used “Let’s Make America Great Again” as one of several slogans for his 1980 presidential campaign.

Trump reportedly coined the phrase “Make America Great Again” in November 2012, just after Mitt Romney, the former Republican governor of Massachusetts, lost the 2012 presidential election to Obama.

Trump filed an application to trademark the slogan for the purpose of “promoting public awareness of political issues and fundraising in the field of politics.” He announced his campaign’s slogan on the same day that he declared his candidacy for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination—June 16, 2015. This date can be seen as the beginning of the MAGA movement.

Trump’s campaign quickly attracted strong support among conservative white working-class voters. Trump’s background as a businessman recommended itself to these Americans as a sign that he understood economics, and his lack of previous government service suggested that he was unstained by the corruption that they associated with Washington, D.C. They also appreciated his populist message, in which he contended that the federal government was controlled by Democratic “elites.” (MAGA members did not consider it at all contradictory that Trump, a billionaire, was himself a member of the country’s wealthy elite; in their view, Trump’s wealth simply meant that, when it came to elites, he knew what he was talking about.) Finally, and perhaps above all, they admired Trump’s personal style, which was notoriously belligerent and confrontational. Trump’s habit of bullying his opponents with personal insults and name-calling, as well as his regular boasting, encouraged MAGA members to think of him as an ordinary person or “regular guy” rather than as a conventional politician.

Many election experts and political commentators failed to take the MAGA phenomenon seriously. Trump’s nomination as the Republican Party’s presidential candidate in 2016 was seen as a boon to Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton’s chances of winning the 2016 presidential election; even Clinton herself felt comfortable enough during the race to publicly dismiss Trump’s most ardent supporters as a “basket of deplorables.” But the MAGA movement’s enthusiasm, combined with Clinton’s unpopularity among segments of independent voters in some states, resulted in Trump’s electoral victory, astonishing not only much of the country but the world.

The MAGA movement remains a powerful force in American politics. In late 2022 an estimated 4 in 10 Republicans identified themselves as “MAGA Republicans.” Shortly after the midterm elections of 2022, Trump declared his candidacy for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination. In view of the strength of the MAGA movement, other candidates for the Republican nomination have been forced to adopt strategies that limit direct or serious criticisms of Trump and emphasize their acceptance of at least some of the extremist views of MAGA members.

SOURCE : https://www.britannica.com/biography/Donald-Trump

2.) MAGA And Politics

If it seems that MAGA movement supporters are committed to the Republican Party, it’s because they are. Dating back to the 2016 presidential election, they’re firmly committed to the party, regardless of the election cycle.

In Trump’s initial run for office in 2016, roughly 90 percent of MAGA supporters voted for him. Ever since then, including the 2018 midterm, MAGA supported the GOP at a 100-percent clip.

Even though Trump lost in 2020, the commitment from MAGA suggests why he had coattails, narrowing Democrats’ advantage in the House. This aforementioned commitment to the GOP among MAGA supporters is easily understood in light of the partisan distribution: approximately 90 percent of MAGA supporters are self-identifying Republicans, or lean GOP.

If, however, we didn’t press them, the “leaners” who first identified as Independent, comprise a total of 27 percent of the sample. Yet, both they, and the “pure” self-identified Independents who are MAGA movement members, overwhelmingly vote GOP.

SOURCE : https://sites.uw.edu/magastudy/maga-and-politics/

3.) MAGA Republicans and Support for Political Violence

SOURCE : https://health.ucdavis.edu/vprp/pdf/snapshot-wintemute-pv-maga-2022.pdf

'No longer' a foreign threat: New bipartisan group calls out MAGA movement as 'fascist'

Democratic Strategist Cornell Belcher and former Department of Homeland Security Chief of Staff Miles Taylor join Nicolle Wallace to discuss a brand new vide...

Response by CPL LaForest Gray made Dec 9 at 2023 8:23 AM

CPL LaForest Gray — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 08:23:30 -0500

1.) Terrorism: Premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents. (As per 22 USCS 2656f.

https://2001-2009.state.gov › info
Glossary - state.gov

Terrorism: Premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents. (As per 22 USCS 2656f. Other definitions in other U.S. laws exist.)

SOURCE : https://2001-2009.state.gov/s/ct/info/c16718.htm#:~:text=Terrorism%3A%20Premeditated%2C%20politically%20motivated%20violence,As%20per%2022%20USCS%202656f.

2.) The Military, Police, and the Rise of Terrorism in the United States

The rest of this brief is divided into four sections. The first provides an overview of terrorism and outlines the data set. The second section assesses the main findings on military personnel and law enforcement, both as perpetrators and targets. The third outlines other findings from the CSIS data set. The fourth section offers brief implications.

Domestic extremists increasingly targeted the military, police, and other government agencies—putting security agencies in the crosshairs of domestic extremists.

Terrorism
This brief focuses on terrorism, which involves the deliberate use—or threat—of violence by non-state actors in order to achieve political goals and create a broad psychological impact.12 Violence and the threat of violence are important components of terrorism. As Professor Bruce Hoffman of Georgetown University argues, terrorism is “the deliberate creation and exploitation of fear through violence or the threat of violence in the pursuit of political change.”13 U.S. Code, which is the official compilation of general and permanent laws of the United States, defines domestic terrorism under 18 U.S. Code § 2331 as “violent acts or acts dangerous to human life” that occur primarily within U.S. territory. It organizes terrorism acts into three components: the act is intended to “intimidate or coerce a civilian population,” it aims to “influence the policy of a government by intimidation or coercion,” and it involves “mass destruction, assassination, or kidnapping.”14

In focusing on terrorism, this brief does not cover the broader categories of hate speech or hate crimes. There is some overlap between terrorism and hate crimes, since some hate crimes include the use or threat of violence.15 But hate crimes can also include non-violent incidents, such as graffiti and verbal abuse. Hate crimes and hate speech are obviously concerning and a threat to society, but this analysis concentrates only on terrorism and the use—or threat—of violence to achieve political objectives. In addition, this analysis does not focus on protests, riots, looting, and broader civil disturbances—unless they meet the definition of terrorism. While these incidents are important to analyze, most are not terrorism. Some are not violent, while others lack a political motivation or the intention to create a broad psychological impact.16

SOURCE : https://www.csis.org/analysis/military-police-and-rise-terrorism-united-states

Response by SN Marilyn Carter made Dec 14 at 2023 8:03 AM

SN Marilyn Carter — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:03:27 -0500

SN Marilyn Carter

Whether or not he intended to follow through with his comments he should’ve known better than to threaten at sitting President or a former President. I am going to say something that some may find offensive but he was foolish to point a weapon at the FBI and he made a deadly decision. As a parent of a veteran and a current member of public safety they risk their lives to protect our communities and our country. You should always take a threat seriously because you don’t know if that person is serious or not. His family loss their father a woman lost her husband but a veteran loss his life because he disavowed his promise to serve and protect. Whether we agree with decisions that are made when we swear an oath in our enlistment we should be committed. I served over forty plus years ago and I haven’t agreed with all decisions that has been made but as a Christian and a veteran I am committed to submitting to governing authorities. God Bless America

Response by SSG Douglas Shaffer made Dec 15 at 2023 2:21 AM

SSG Douglas Shaffer — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 02:21:22 -0500

It's big money in the government that keeps us divided with fear to buy things. You need to buy more weapons, you need to get more gas, you need to buy more food you need to buy more equipment, this is happening on both side of the fence of the political forum. To the point that we are angry with our whole political situation. Where do we all get our general information "The News" and who really controls the new corporation.
Examples of corporation control. Gas prices went up under Biden, but what did he do to make it happen, nothing. Keystone pipeline shut down of Canadian "Tar Sand Oil" to China, gasoline prices went up, You cannot make good quality gasoline out of Tar Sand Oil the key word Tar, War in Ukraine breaks out and we stop taking in 580,000 barrels of oil from Russia, we started releasing 1,000,000 barrels a day to offset the lost and yet US gas prices went up, everyone blames Biden. Biden didn't start that war. Meanwhile the oil companies are sitting on 9,000 permits to drill, not leases but permits, Biden didn't want the oil companies to use more federal land until they start using those permits, gas prices go up. While all along the oil companies were sitting on just over 4,800 "New Wells" where did I get this information from the Department of Energy and now the oil companies are backing many candidates for president that want to get rid of the Department of Energy. Now all the while the president is being blamed, to which this is just a fraction of what is dividing us.
How many times have we all said sitting around the table or elsewhere and asked, "When was the last time in medicine that we really have cured anything?" The real last cure for anything really was back in the 50"s! Sure, they have made break throughs and yes, they can treat this, and they can treat that, but what have they cured? We all get mad at the government for not stepping in and to do something about it, and drug prices just keep going up and nearly 80% of our drugs are made overseas in third world counties with cheap labor.
Food prices go up and we blame the government, for the way it is handling thing and choking the small farmers out when most of our farming is almost all corporate farms now and much of our other foods come in from other countries. The government should support our local farmers with incentives we say, and it does. While millions and millions of it goes to corporate farms.
While we pass laws from pressure from major farm corporations that requiring little farms to continue to pump "X" gillions a day, in order to keep their water rights. So, they water large empty fields, then people get mad at the farmers for wasting so much water, during dry times, then they get mad at the government for not stopping the framers from wasting so much water. Many farmers lose their water rights, it all goes over to Privatized water companies. Then farmers can't afford to pay the water bills and to farm. Framers are forced to remove olive trees, apple tree, orange trees, almond trees that died because they can't water them food prices go up, farmers lose their farms and now most of those farms are property developments. This all happened and is still happening in California and many other areas. You want to stop the Great American Divide, you want to help fellow veterans, fellow Americans and "Our" Great Nation get corporate money out of Our government. Think for a moment how better all of our lives would be.
I can understand one's frustration with our current political situation and our economy. It makes me mad too. However, I also know that it is against the law to make threats on social media or by any other means as well even if they are "Empty Threats."
Should the FBI have handled this situation better, sure they could but they didn't, why? Why is the real question that an answer is needed to be found out. They knew he had been in the military with experience, they knew he had weapons in the home, and they knew he was at home! What did they think was going to happen. When you know that the person in the house is mad at the government and the government is knocking on the door. They should have taken him down outside the home somewhere in a public area when he was away from all of his weapons.

Response by SPC Julio R. made Dec 15 at 2023 1:35 PM

SPC Julio R. — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:35:49 -0500

This won't be the first time nor will it be the last time that it doesn't matter. Change of command do not care one iota about a soldier underneath them what they care about is patting their resumes so they can get promoted and get those attaboys. In the 11 years I was in I can count on one hand how many inches you'll actually gave a d*** about their soldiers officers could care less anyone above could care less 5 in 11 years that actually gave a d*** the rest only care about themselves getting home getting back to get about themselves so on and so forth and if a soldier creates a problem for them as in asking for help well crickets.

Response by 1SG Dean Mcbride (MPER) (CPHR) made Dec 15 at 2023 1:44 PM

1SG Dean Mcbride (MPER) (CPHR) — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 13:44:27 -0500

According to the US Census Bureau, in 2022, there were 16.2 million veterans in the US. With that large of a population, there are going to be both good and bad persons. To blame behavior on the Military is like saying, if someone lived in New York for a few years and engaged in a violent activity in California, we should blame New York for his behavior! I get very tired of hearing the word "Veteran" associated with criminal behavior. It's the media's way of sensationalising the issues in order to "sell more papers"! Reminds me of a lady I knew that blamed the military for her nephew's drug problems. She was rather offended when I told her he had problems before the military and the drug issue would have been with him even if he never served!
By the way... The Census Bureau's American Community Survey includes annual estimates of veterans. According to the Census Bureau, veterans are anyone who has previously served (regardless of the duration of service) in active duty in the armed forces.

Response by MSgt Allen Chandler made Jan 18 at 2024 6:53 PM

MSgt Allen Chandler — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 18:53:49 -0500

The veteran community should respond exactly as it would if this person had not been a veteran.
Based on the article, the FBI had reason to go to his house and talk to him. If there is an investigation and they find that the reasoning was not correct that the FBI agents should be counseled and trained better before they get a warrant. Once he FBI agents arrived at his house. There appeared to talk to him through a bullhorn. He refused to cooperate. At some point he broke out a glass window and pointed a gun at the agents. That certainly justifies a high level of concern. This seems to be some concern about whether the FBI agents were wearing body cameras are not. In my opinion, they certainly should have in this case, and if they were not that should be investigated. Whether this was a right-wing or left-wing radical are the most peaceful, law-abiding citizen anyone ever met at the point where he pointed a gun out of a window at the FBI agents is certainly changed the situation and how they reacted to it.
I personally do not defend anybody pointing guns and FBI agents. The fact that this man served in the Air Force years ago has nothing to do with the story.

Response by SPC Peter Suedfeld made Mar 24 at 2024 5:30 PM

SPC Peter Suedfeld — Sun, 24 Mar 2024 17:30:46 -0400

I dislike the practice of the media to always emphasize the veteran status of someone who commits a crime or gets involved in something unsavory. The implications are, (1) that having served in the military is the cause of the individual's problem, and (b) that all veterans are susceptible to committing such actions. Neither of those is true, of course.
Also, in answer to SFC Fuerhoff's question ("Why does the military community need to respond?"), there's no such need; but people in mental distress may respond better to someone they perceive to be like themselves, understand their problems, and be sympathetic. This is regardless of whether the problem is service-connected: the similarity of the experiences and what they imply about values, motivation, and personality, may be effective. This is no substitute for professional help, but it could be good "psychological first aid." Of course, not all veterans would have the desire to engage with a person in such distress, and not all would be effective in the role.

Response by SSG Chris Gursky made Apr 1 at 2024 8:48 AM

SSG Chris Gursky — Mon, 01 Apr 2024 08:48:57 -0400

Sometimes two suits knocking at the door can sort things out before involving a swat team. I this case we will never know.

Response by SP5 Norman Binder made Apr 25 at 2024 3:35 PM

SP5 Norman Binder — Thu, 25 Apr 2024 15:35:22 -0400

This will sound stupid but I can't fit 'guns' and 'Air Force' in the same sentence, except the pilots.
This report, to me, comes across more as an ego trip gone wrong.

Response by SP6 Richard Kellar made Apr 26 at 2024 8:55 AM

SP6 Richard Kellar — Fri, 26 Apr 2024 08:55:48 -0400

Stop the propaganda

Response by SFC Howard Holmes made Apr 27 at 2024 3:38 PM

SFC Howard Holmes — Sat, 27 Apr 2024 15:38:42 -0400

He could be impacted by mental illness, did he hold strong beliefs prior to joining? He may feel our Constitutional Rights are under threat, after all, he did swear to defend the Constitution. There are veterans who leave the military and do great things, and some who do horrendous things, Timothy McVeigh, Lee Harvey Oswald, as just two examples. As an MP, I saw service members who were still serving that were kind of whacko. Unfortunately, we take the good with the bad. Of the many millions of veterans a bad, sour, or awful individual is going to choose their path. ANYBODY, who would put stuff like that on social media has absolutely ZERO situational awareness. Everything we say and do, especially on line is monitored, and when clowns like that put threats like that on line, well, they obviously didn't learn much. However, thank God that individuals with feelings like this are fools, that way they get caught prior to actually implementing such stupid acts.

Response by Cpl Brad MarkW made Apr 28 at 2024 1:23 AM

Cpl Brad MarkW — Sun, 28 Apr 2024 01:23:07 -0400

Same way we responded to the Air Force dipsh1t that immolated himself as a protest against US policy in Gaza/Israel - with mocking derision and sarcasm. FAFO I say. Veterans don't need to respond to others' crimes or actions. They made those choices on their own. I can only be responsible for my own actions.

Response by SFC Willie Morgan made May 2 at 2024 7:00 AM

SFC Willie Morgan — Thu, 02 May 2024 07:00:42 -0400

Easy Answer, "Do Not" be stupid and post threats. Acting out of emotion is what radicals do because they believe there will not be any consequences for they're actions.