Democrats Ramp Up “Fascism” Rhetoric Against President Trump – Mid Term Strategy?

In a politically charged atmosphere, Democratic lawmakers are intensifying their criticism of President Donald Trump, frequently labeling his actions and those of his supporters as “fascism.” This escalation comes despite calls from within their own party to tone down such inflammatory language. Drawing from recent congressional debates, media commentary, and upcoming book revelations, the discourse highlights deep divisions in Washington.

Calls to Avoid Inflammatory Language Ignored

Just days ago, Democratic Senator John Fetterman urged his colleagues to refrain from “doom-mongering” rhetoric, such as comparing President Trump to Hitler or using terms like “fascism.” Fetterman expressed concerns that such language could incite further violence, referencing the murder of conservative activist Charlie Kirk as a cautionary example. However, this plea appears to have fallen on deaf ears.

An op-ed in the Philadelphia Inquirer, penned by late-night host Jimmy Kimmel, questioned Fetterman directly: “Can we call it fascism yet?” Democrats on Capitol Hill quickly echoed this sentiment. One lawmaker described the President and his allies—including congressional Republicans, the Vice President, the FCC Chair, the Attorney General, and the Secretary of State—as implementing a “dangerous agenda to punish their opposition.” They asserted, “Fascism is not on the way. It is here.”

Additionally, American Federation of Teachers President Randi Weingarten promoted her book, Why Fascists Fear Teachers, as essential reading amid the debate.

Heated Exchanges in Congress

During a debate on D.C. crime, Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib defended the use of strong language, telling Republicans not to take it personally. “We’re attacking a process, not attacking people here,” she said. Tlaib emphasized the need to “stand up against this fascist takeover,” calling it “not a bad word” but “a fact.” This prompted a sharp retort from a Republican colleague: “Do I look like a member of the Third Reich to you, Ms. Tlaib?”

Separately, a push to censure Representative Ilhan Omar over comments about Charlie Kirk failed, but new video footage of Omar speaking in a church has reignited controversy. In the clip, Omar accused those “rewriting this hateful man’s history” of being “full of…” (the statement was cut off in reports). White House advisor Stephen Miller responded by accusing Democrats of “endlessly inciting violence.” President Trump amplified this on Truth Social, highlighting chaos in Omar’s home country of Somalia and questioning her authority to critique America. The House Main Street Caucus chair has since referred Omar to the House Ethics Committee.

These incidents underscore that political temperatures show no signs of cooling.

Analysis: The Risks of ‘Fascism’ Propaganda

Political commentator Byron York, discussing the rhetoric with Fox News, referenced an op-ed in The Hill by Keith Naughton. Naughton argued that in an open society, propaganda often backfires on its perpetrators more than its targets. “Democrats are slowly finding that out as the country tires of their fascism fascination,” Naughton wrote. He listed actions typically associated with fascism that Trump has not pursued, such as canceling elections, removing Democrats from ballots, expanding government, or imposing immigration quotas.

York noted that while this language appeals to Democratic bases—citing an ABC poll where 87% of Democrats viewed Trump as a fascist—it may not help in swing states like Pennsylvania, Georgia, Michigan, and Wisconsin. With midterms approaching next year, Democrats seem focused on energizing their core voters rather than broadening appeal. York described a recent House shouting match between Tlaib and a Republican as “astonishing and ugly,” but attributed the rhetoric to political incentives in non-presidential election cycles.

Kamala Harris’s Book Reveals Internal Democratic Tensions

Shifting focus, excerpts from Vice President Kamala Harris’s upcoming book, 107 Days, reveal sharp criticism of her former boss, President Joe Biden. Harris recounts a phone call from Biden hours before her debate with Trump, where he relayed complaints from his brother and Philadelphia powerbrokers accusing her of badmouthing him. “I just couldn’t understand why he would call me right now and make it all about himself,” Harris wrote, noting it distracted her in a critical swing state.

York called the story “astonishing,” suggesting Biden may have been trying to undermine her. The book’s title reflects Harris’s frustration that Biden’s late withdrawal from the race left her with insufficient time to campaign effectively, positioning him as the “big villain.” Harris also criticizes other Democrats, including Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, whom she considered for her running mate but found overly focused on personal perks like decorating the vice president’s residence. She expresses anger toward California Governor Gavin Newsom and others she feels let her down.

Observers note that Harris’s candid takedowns could signal she has no immediate plans to run again, as they risk alienating key party figures.

Looking Ahead: Midterms and Lingering Divisions

As midterm elections loom, Democrats’ focus on anti-Trump rhetoric and internal finger-pointing may energize bases but alienate moderates. With no signs of de-escalation, the political environment remains volatile, raising questions about unity and effective governance in the coming year. More excerpts from Harris’s book are expected, potentially fueling further debate within the party.