If it looks like a duck, swims like a duck, and quacks like a duck, it probably is a duck. In the case of Donald Trump’s political advisor Stephen Miller, he may not actually be a duck, but he checks every box of a textbook fascist.
Fascism is defined by ultranationalism, authoritarianism, militarism, anti-liberalism, scapegoating of minorities, a cult of leadership, and anti-egalitarianism. Miller’s politics fit all of these traits perfectly. The only argument some make that he’s not a fascist is that he operates within a democracy rather than a dictatorship. To that, the response is simple: “Yeah, for now.”
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s press office recently stopped dancing around the label and boldly stated on X that “STEPHEN MILLER IS A FASCIST!” Miller’s only response was, “Why do you think they posted this?” Newsom’s team answered plainly: “Because you’re a fascist.” And honestly, it’s hard to argue with that.
At this point, Miller doesn’t even deny it. When you spend your days making overtly fascistic speeches, supporting an administration that suppresses free speech, launching militarized attacks on domestic cities, and detaining people in concentration camps, why bother denying the label? Everyone knows. He knows. The only missing piece is for him to embrace it outright and say, “Yes, I’m a fascist, so what?”
Normally, admitting to being a fascist would end a political career instantly. But we don’t live in normal times. Among MAGA supporters, it’s depressingly likely that such a declaration would be met with brief confusion and then celebration, as fascism might even be seen as a badge of honor.
Some critics argue that using the word “fascist” publicly could incite violence. After all, the United States once took up arms against fascists in World War II to end their reign of terror in Europe. But if Miller truly wants people to stop calling him a fascist, he could make it simple: stop acting like one every single day.
The truth is, Stephen Miller is a fascist in plain sight. He embodies the ideology not through subtle hints but in his actions and policies. Acknowledging it doesn’t exaggerate reality, it just names it accurately.
