The common denominator characterizing this populist political moment is a general sentiment of no confidence in “the system.” Whoever identifies the community and gains the hegemonic high ground will define the issues and set the agenda. This can become a reactionary neo-fascist agenda or a progressive social democratic revolution.

The ruling capitalist class understands that democracy isn’t going to work for them anymore — because of changing demographics, the ascendancy of authoritarian regimes, the pace of change and increased competition fueled by globalization and technology. Democracy is too slow and messy and necessarily too considerate of workers’ needs and the environment to be sustained and still be competitive.

Workers also feel democracy is not working for them, but not because the system is too democratic but because it isn’t democratic enough. However, whereas capital understands democracy at this moment as a process that can get in the way of ushering in a more efficient authoritarian approach, workers think of democracy in terms of effect — positive policies that help the lives of workers, whatever process is used — results are the measure of democracy. It’s here that linking authoritarianism to promises of reform has the odor and potential for fascism (remember Hitler’s rise and reforms in Germany). Trumpism is this proto-fascist linkage of ruling capitalist interests and deluded workers striving for real progress. Immigrants, people of color, foreigners and the government itself become barriers to progress — the enemy as described by this tendency.

This brings us to the wall and the government shutdown. Primarily, it’s an ideological battle not a policy debate. Democrats can’t agree to a compromise based on the notion of immigrants as sub-human leeches and criminals any more than Trumpites can compromise on half a wall. It’s a moral line in the sand, fundamentally defining a vision for the nation, its values and direction.

Trump is deliberately creating a national security crisis, which has nothing do with threats from immigration or border security, but everything to do with distraction away from the Mueller investigation and aimed at undermining and dismantling government in general to create the conditions to assert authoritarian executive power. The issue plays to securing the Trump base (all he’s got) and a last stand for Republicans who know their fate is now linked to Trump. It plays to the notion that government is broken — lending to the acceptability of authoritarian solutions, such as declaring a national emergency over the border wall. For Trump and Republicans, a weakened, broken or dismantled government is better than a democratic government that no longer represents them. Their aim is effectively subversive — willing, if need be, to scuttle the ship of state on their way out the door so it can’t be used against them.

In fact, it’s elements of the wealthy capitalist class — the 1 percent — that is the true barrier to progress and real democracy. Government fails mostly as it is corrupted by capital. Now, more than ever, workers must resist autocratic and fascist tendencies and insist on people’s democracy.

Mike Kelly

Albert Lea