Trump Plans to Designate Antifa as Terrorist Organization Soon

President Donald Trump is poised to officially designate the anti-fascism movement known as Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization. According to White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt, the president intends to sign an executive order on this matter as early as Monday, marking a significant escalation in his administration’s approach to left-leaning political groups.

During a press briefing, Leavitt confirmed, “Antifa is going to be designated a domestic terrorist organization.” She emphasized that the order is part of a broader strategy to address what Trump perceives as radical elements within the Democratic Party. “The president intends to sign an executive order very soon,” she stated, suggesting that it could happen the same day.

The announcement follows Trump’s prior commitment to label Antifa as a terrorist group, a promise he made following the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. Kirk’s widow, Erika Kirk, publicly expressed a desire for unity and forgiveness, contrasting with the president’s more combative stance. Leavitt defended Trump’s remarks at Kirk’s funeral, where he expressed hostility toward political opponents, stating, “The president is authentically himself.”

The practical implications of designating Antifa as a terrorist organization remain uncertain. Legal analysts have indicated that such a move may face constitutional challenges. Antifa, short for anti-fascist, represents a loosely organized set of individuals and groups with leftist ideologies that often diverge from mainstream Democratic positions. Unlike established far-right organizations, Antifa lacks a formal hierarchy or leadership, complicating any efforts to target specific individuals or funding sources.

Leavitt cited instances of violence linked to Antifa, including bullets recovered from the investigation into Kirk’s shooting, which bore anti-fascist messages. She mentioned a series of violent acts purportedly committed by those identifying with Antifa, asserting that the administration would investigate funding sources for the group and others associated with left-wing violence.

The term “antifa” has historical roots, tracing back to resistance movements against fascism during World War II. The decision to label it as a terrorist organization has sparked concerns that the Trump administration may be overstepping its authority to suppress dissent on a larger scale.

In a related remark, Trump suggested that members of the activist group Code Pink, who protested during his recent visit to a restaurant in Washington, DC, should face legal repercussions. The administration’s intensified focus on groups like Antifa reflects ongoing tensions within the political landscape as the nation navigates deeply polarized sentiments.

As the potential executive order looms, the implications for civil liberties and political expression in the United States are still being assessed by legal experts and activists alike. The situation continues to unfold, with many watching closely to see how this designation might affect both Antifa and the broader discourse surrounding political dissent.