Violence Begets Violence
Marc Ash Reader Supported News
23 July 24: Former U.S. President Donald Trump reels after being wounded by a would be assassin while onstage at a campaign rally in Butler, PA. (photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty)
In the long history of political assassinations it is difficult to point to any material benefit or positive result that came about as a result of such violent acts, and the current instance is likely to be no exception. Do not expect anything useful to come of what occurred yesterday.
One thing that has been a constant feature of Trump rallies throughout his political life has been the implication of, if not the direct threat of violence. Always directed at individuals Trump defines as, those harming America. It’s been one of the most troubling and alarming aspects of what Trump represents to the political environment.
A direct real-world consequence of Trump’s incendiary speech has been a steady stream of threats against Democratic lawmakers, the attempted murder of Paul Pelosi, husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and a violent mob assault on the U.S. Capitol aimed at the overthrow of the U.S. government and the assassination by hanging of then Vice President Mike Pence.
No candidate for the U.S. presidency has ever engaged in anywhere the level of threats and intimidating rhetoric that Trump routinely relies upon and there is good reason why they have not. Such inflammatory and irresponsible remarks inevitably lead to violent actions.
Yes Donald Trump seeks to harness violent thoughts, words and actions to achieve his political and personal aims. Violence begets violence, irresponsible rhetoric inspires irresponsible actions. Beware the provocateur for we may all reap the whirlwind.
Marc Ash is the founder and former Executive Director of Truthout, and is now founder and Editor of Reader Supported News.
Reader Supported News is the Publication of Origin for this work. Permission to republish is freely granted with credit and a link back to Reader Supported News.
