This month we’ve seen violent and illegal behavior from extremists on the right and the left in response to the centrist and moderate resurgence we’re seeing in the United States. Republicans who have expressed concerns in recent years about extremism in the party are now feeling vindicated, despite the backlash of being branded as RINOs (Republicans in name only). Moderate Democrats wanting a more moderate administration are happy that Joe Biden won the election. All these centrist are making the rounds on news, talk shows, and late night TV talking about the benefit of finding common ground and working together.
Within hours after the inauguration of Joe Biden, leftist in Portland smashed windows and spray-painted “F— Biden” on the Democratic Party headquarters there. Portland police said some of the group of about 150 people carried weapons “including Molotov cocktails, knives, batons, chemical spray and a crowbar.” [Source: NBC News, 21 Jan 2021]
These are people who apparently haven’t heard the saying that the pen is mightier than the crowbar.
To leftist extremists, Joe Biden is seen as a corporate capitalist sellout and Wall Street puppet. To extremists on the right, Biden is considered to be a socialist and shill for The Squad to do their bidding.
About two weeks ago we had violent armed right-wing insurrectionists attack the Capitol. The event underscored the severity of cancel culture on the Right. If you get cancelled by liberals, you might need to find another book publisher. If you get cancelled by conservatives, you may face hundreds of angry armed militants shouting for your death.
Each side believes their platform is the way, the truth, and the life and unwilling to compromise or listen to the other side.
Most people would agree that those who oppose racism are on the right side of history. While their position is ethical, their actions (the illegal actions violent extremists) are not likely to produce the best long-term outcomes or win hearts and minds. For more about counterproductive activism read, “Counterproductive Activism: How Direct Action Protests Could Harm the Progressive Movement in America.” [View]
For our nation to move toward a future of peace and prosperity, moderate Republicans and Democrats will need to genuinely work together to find solutions for the issues that impact us all.
Further Reading
For more on this topic, read “Meet the Republicans Promoting Civility and Cooperation.” [View]
Another good resource is “Black Community Leaders Speak Out Against Violent Protests.” [View]