Fascism: a political philosophy, movement, or regime that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition.
Here are 14 defining characteristics of a fascistic government: Nationalism (constant use of slogans, symbols, flags, etc.); disregard for human rights; a unified frenzy to eliminate perceived enemies (racial/religious minorities, liberals, socialists, etc.); supremacy of the military; sexism; control or censorship of the media; obsession with national security; religion and government intertwined; corporate power protected; labor power suppressed; disrespect for and oppression of intellectuals and the arts (censorship in schools, free expression attacked, book banning); obsession with crime and punishment; rampant cronyism and corruption; fraudulent elections (manipulation to control elections, i.e. gerrymandering, voter suppression).
The current Republican Party exhibits every one of these frightening characteristics. It might be time to rename the party. At the very least, they should not be controlling our democracy.
