Is Trump’s America Setting the Stage to Target People Who Look Just Like Most of His MAGA Supporters? Even White Americans Citizens Who Dare to Disagree with him?

The Jack Hopkins Now Newsletter #303

Did That Title/Headline Jolt You A Bit? Maybe It Offended You. Perhaps...Like Many People Who Fit That Description, You Feel Safe And Almost Like You’re Off-Limits.

Many people become awkward when they see/hear someone talking about racial issues. I like to exploit that, not reinforce it.

When things have been structured in a way that talking about certain things that we’ve made taboo, and then we say silly things like, “We need more discussions about race, LGBTQ issues, women’s rights, etc,” we’ve just said, We need to talk more about this…but first…let’s make it much harder and uncomfortable to talk about it.”

I don’t stammer when I talk about those issues. I’m more than willing to communicate in a way that crosses some pretend line that we aren’t supposed to criss.

I’ve been encountering people who have those thoughts and feelings when I am talking to some white, rural U.S. citizens. Some almost have a sense of being untouchable because they are white….and their multi-generational….all-U.S. citizen family…has been here for a hundred years or more. Oh…and they voted for Trump.

Are they right? If they don’t look like what the Trump administration would probably describe as “..that illegal immigrant look,” are U.S. citizens and support Donald…will they be safe and untargeted? Almost certainly. I’d say there’s a good chance that your opinion is similar.

But…what if those white U.S. citizens…who supported Donald Trump have become disgruntled with him..and/or his policies…and energetically express it each day on social media…or by taking part in peaceful protests outside Trump Tower or the like? Will they still be “untouchable”?

That’s the big question.

This is a question millions of U.S. citizens are having, be they Hispanic, Black, White, Japanese, Chinese, Thai, Ukrainian, etc.

While those with darker skin likely feel they are at an elevated risk, they’re struggling with the schizophrenic-like feelings of “I’m a U.S. citizen, so I’m fine/I don’t think it matters that I am a U.S. citizen.”

It’s an intense form of uncertainty…and we human beings, for the most part…don’t handle uncertainties well at all,

While there is currently no evidence to suggest that President Trump plans to deport white U.S. citizens who disagree with him or speak out against him, he’s just targeting criminal, non-citizen immigrants, right? Well, that’s what we’ve been told.

Yet, after the “Oh, him? Oh well!” response about Kilmar Abrego Garcia, a 29-year-old Salvadorian national who has resided in the United States for the last ten years, millions of men, women, and children with dark skin are fearful. Very fearful.

It turns out that millions of Americans with white skin are starting to grow deeply concerned, if not terrified:

If that’s not a warning sign…for everyone…I don’t know what would be.

When “Whitey” is shaken up about what’s happening to the citizens of this country…things have likely gone to hell…for all of us.

At least, that’s what I’ve observed over the last fifty-nine years. It’s a sad statement about society…but it will be the subject of a different article.

Would the Trump administration really deport someone...regardless of their skin color or ethnicity...OR LEGAL STATUS...just because they disagree with him or make fun of him? This is America. We have Constitutional rights, correct?

Well...we do, in theory (at least for now), but it’s more of a question of whether this administration will honor those rights or plow right through them...doing what they want to do and however they want.

We’ve seen developments that indicate a concerning trend toward targeting dissenters.​

In April 2025, the Trump administration initiated a crackdown on pro-Palestinian protesters…including arrests and deportations…under the pretext of fighting antisemitism by labeling such activists as "Hamas supporters."

This strategy aligns with "Project Esther," a plan from the Heritage Foundation created largely without Jewish input and driven by Christian nationalist ideologies.

Project Esther redefines criticism of Israel as antisemitism and calls for punitive measures such as the deportation of international students…the firing of professors…and the dismantling of organizations that support Palestinian rights.

Critics argue that this approach weaponizes antisemitism to suppress dissent and erodes democratic freedoms…ultimately increasing antisemitism by associating Jewish people with authoritarian actions.

These actions have raised alarms among civil liberties organizations…who view them as a violation of free speech rights and a dangerous assault on democratic values.

While the current focus appears to be on specific groups…the underlying strategies and legal frameworks being employed could potentially be expanded to target a broader range of political dissenters…including white U.S. citizens; yep, likely even white U.S. citizens…who voted for Trump in 2024…but have chosen to speak out against him.

The situation warrants close monitoring to ensure that constitutional rights and democratic principles are upheld.​

The warning signs that a government or leader might move toward authoritarian practices, such as targeting dissenters or limiting freedoms, can be subtle at...first...but grow more pronounced over time.

Here are some of the key warning signs:

Crackdown on Free Speech:

Efforts to silence critics, whether through legal action, censorship, or using state power to intimidate dissenting voices, are major red flags.This includes labeling certain speech or activism as "dangerous" or "unpatriotic" (e.g., criticizing the government or its allies).

Targeting Specific Groups:

If certain groups (e.g., political activists, racial or ethnic minorities, or religious communities) are singled out for surveillance, discrimination, or deportation based on their views or actions, this is an alarming trend.

In some cases, government actions may be justified under the guise of national security or protecting national identity.

Erosion of Legal Protections:

Over time, if legal systems are altered to suppress dissent or weaken individual rights, it signals a shift toward authoritarian rule.

This could involve undermining the independence of the judiciary, detaining people without trial, or passing laws that restrict the ability of citizens to protest or organize freely.

Centralization of Power:

Leaders who seek to centralize power within their own hands, diminish checks and balances, or undermine democratic institutions are often laying the groundwork for authoritarianism.

The concentration of power in one individual or a small group without accountability can be a precursor to repressive measures.

Use of Nationalism and Populism:

Leaders who use divisive rhetoric, promote "us vs. them" mentalities, and frame themselves as the only true representative of the people can create a culture of fear and intolerance toward opposing views.

Nationalist rhetoric often leads to scapegoating minority groups, accusing them of being "unpatriotic" or a threat to national security.

Political Polarization:

Increasingly polarized political environments, where opposing parties are not just rivals but are demonized or dehumanized, can create a climate where extreme measures are seen as justified.

This can escalate to the point where political opposition is treated as a threat to the nation's stability, leading to authoritarian tactics to "protect" the state.

Weakening of Democratic Institutions:

A sustained attack on democratic institutions—such as free elections, independent media, or civil society organizations—shows signs of a government trying to stifle dissent and maintain power.

Any actions that undermine transparency, accountability, or fairness are deeply concerning.

Militarization of Police or Law Enforcement:

The increasing militarization of law enforcement, especially if used against protesters, journalists, or dissenting citizens, can signal that the state is preparing for more authoritarian tactics to maintain control.

Aggressive use of force against unarmed citizens or peaceful protests is a red flag.

Surveillance and Control of Information:

If the government begins monitoring its citizens more extensively or controlling what information the public has access to (e.g., censoring the internet or regulating the media), it indicates an effort to suppress opposition.

This might include attacks on independent journalists or media outlets that criticize the government.

Manipulation of National Security Concerns:

Leaders who exploit national security fears to justify expanding their power, curbing rights, or taking extreme actions against perceived enemies often start to resemble authoritarian rulers.

A consistent pattern of declaring certain groups as "threats to national security" is a key warning.

What to Look Out For:

Language:

Pay attention to leaders’ rhetoric. Leaders using words like "traitors," "enemies of the state," or framing dissent as dangerous, foreign influence, or terrorism is a significant red flag.

Laws and Orders:

Watch for laws passed that erode rights…limit protests, or grant the state greater powers over individuals' lives without oversight.

Actions Over Time:

The erosion of freedoms often happens slowly. A pattern of increasingly authoritarian actions…even in small steps, should raise alarms.

If these warning signs start to emerge and escalate, it’s important for citizens, civil society, and institutions to stand firm in defense of democratic principles and push back against actions that undermine freedom and fairness.

If it becomes clear that a government or leader is moving toward authoritarianism, there are several actions that individuals...communities...and organizations can take to resist and protect democratic values.

The key is to stay informed, mobilize, and be prepared to defend fundamental rights and freedoms.

Here’s what people can do:

Stay Informed and Educated:

Understand the Threats:

People need to understand what’s happening, how the erosion of rights happens, and the specific threats to democracy.

Education about history…politics…and how authoritarian regimes operate can help people recognize red flags early.

Access Reliable Sources:

Seek information from independent media outlets…watchdog organizations…and non-governmental sources. Avoid propaganda or state-controlled outlets that present a biased view of events.

Organize and Mobilize:

Form Alliances:

Civil society groups…political organizations…grassroots movements…and even ordinary citizens can form alliances to resist authoritarian actions. The strength of collective action can have a powerful impact.

Protest Peacefully:

Non-violent protests…marches, and rallies can show that the people oppose authoritarianism. History has shown that peaceful resistance can be highly effective (civil rights movements, anti-apartheid protests).

Boycott and Withdraw Support:

When possible, individuals and businesses can boycott government policies or laws that undermine democracy. This can apply to corporations…institutions…and individuals who comply with repressive regimes.

Engage Politically:

Vote and Support Democratic Candidates:

If elections are still free and fair, voting for candidates who advocate for democracy, human rights, and freedom is vital. Engaging in political campaigns, running for office, or encouraging others to vote are key ways to fight back.

Legal Action:

When laws or policies are unconstitutional or violate individual rights…legal challenges in court can be an important tool. Supporting organizations that take legal action, like the ACLU or Human Rights Watch, is a way to protect civil liberties.

Protect Free Speech:

Use Social Media and Public Platforms:

Social media is a critical space for organizing, spreading information, and raising awareness. People should use their voices online to call attention to authoritarian actions…share facts…and educate others. But be cautious of censorship or surveillance…take steps to protect privacy.

Support Independent Journalism:

Independent journalists are essential for holding governments accountable. Supporting independent media outlets…donating to investigative journalism projects… and sharing stories from trusted reporters can ensure that information continues to flow freely.

Defend the Rule of Law:

Challenge Unconstitutional Laws:

If laws are passed that violate rights or undermine democratic principles…individuals and organizations should challenge them through legal processes…such as lobbying lawmakers or filing lawsuits.

Push for Judicial Independence:

Support efforts to keep the judiciary independent from political influence. If courts are being compromised, efforts should be made to defend and restore their impartiality.

Support Civil Liberties Organizations:

Donate to or Volunteer for Advocacy Groups:

Organizations like the ACLU, Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and others fight for the protection of human rights and democratic principles. Supporting these groups can help fund their efforts to protect dissenters and marginalized groups.

Raise Awareness:

Use your platform to highlight the work of these organizations and encourage others to get involved.

Prepare for the Long Fight:

Nonviolent Resistance:

History shows that authoritarian regimes are often overthrown through prolonged nonviolent resistance rather than violent confrontation. Acts of civil disobedience, strikes, and boycotts can undermine the regime’s power over time.

Stay Resilient:

Resistance to authoritarianism may be a long and difficult battle. Individuals and communities should remain united and resilient, even when the odds seem insurmountable.

Global Solidarity:

Build International Pressure:

Authoritarian regimes are often sensitive to international condemnation and sanctions. People can work with international human rights organizations and foreign governments to put pressure on the regime.

Support Global Movements:

Aligning with global human rights movements can strengthen domestic resistance efforts and show solidarity with people in other nations fighting similar battles.

Use Technology Wisely:

Protect Personal Privacy:

In times of heightened surveillance, it’s important to take steps to protect personal privacy. This includes using encrypted messaging apps…securing devices…and being mindful of online activity.

Spread Information Safely:

Using secure platforms to communicate…organizing online…and spreading truthful information are key to keeping democratic movements alive. Caution is needed when working in environments where dissent is punished.

Prepare for Worst-Case Scenarios:

Know Your Rights:

Understanding your legal rights…such as rights during protests or in case of arrest…can be crucial. People should know what legal protections exist in their country…and have a plan in place for what to do if their rights are violated.

Build Safe Spaces:

If repression increases…communities can organize safe spaces to support individuals at risk….whether through legal assistance…feeding them…or finding ways to offer psychological support.

Exposing Corruption and Inefficiency:

Hold Leaders Accountable:

Exposing corruption…inefficiency…and abuse of power through investigations…leaks…or reporting can help erode the regime’s credibility and support.

Encourage Whistleblowing:

People who have inside knowledge of government wrongdoing can be encouraged to blow the whistle (safely, with protections in place).

The fight against authoritarianism is challenging…but…it’s not impossible. History has shown that persistent…coordinated resistance can change the course of events.

While it may require great sacrifices…okay…it will require significant sacrifices…defending democracy is crucial for the well-being of future generations. 1qq

The key is to stay informed...organized...and prepared to take action when necessary.

Ultimately, collective efforts…both within a country and across borders…are essential in fighting rising authoritarianism.

That’s it for now. It’s 4:00 am…and I’m about ready to catch some zzzzzzzzz for a few hours.

Enjoy the rest of your weekend!

Best,

Jack