Great historical context for our current unfolding tragedy. My quick take: 1) We need to do something NOW, not organize for the 2026 elections. That’s way too late. For God’s sake, Somebody organize us NOW to March on Washington by the millions and shut that city down. Massive, peaceful civil opposition is the only way to stop this before we slide into all the evils you have outlined. 2) We need to boldly disrupt evangelical religion, like they have disrupted our civil society. Their churches are the breeding ground of fascism in America. 3) Stop supporting the oligarchs with your dollars. Make it painful to own a Tesla. Cancel Amazon, etc. 4) Don’t let the bastards divide us. Unite against fascism.
Michael, your urgency and clarity are spot-on. Large-scale peaceful protests, economic boycotts, and unified opposition are indeed critical parts of resistance. I’d also emphasize building strong, resilient local networks. Sustained, decentralized action that cuts across communities will be essential in protecting democracy and countering authoritarianism. Appreciate you highlighting practical ways forward.
Thanks for mentioning that. Events like this upcoming march can help galvanize national attention. For those attending or supporting, ensure clear goals are set and peaceful action is prioritized, reinforcing broad public support and legitimacy.
At the bottom, you mentioned an “accompanying strategic playbook.“ Is that the section under the “Survival Strategies & Resistance” heading? Or is there something else, maybe something downloadable?
Great question, Heather! This piece is my analysis—where I outline the threats and what’s unfolding. I always follow these analyses with separate, actionable strategic playbooks focused on preparedness and resistance. You can check out my earlier playbooks covering banking, public health, social safety net, and first amendment collapse as examples of what’s to come. The playbook for this analysis will be available shortly, so stay tuned.
We gotta get out the vote to pissed off Republicans during these 3 upcoming special House elections. It just may be our final opportunity to stop the chaos.
I appreciate your passion, Luke, and special elections certainly matter, but voting alone won’t be enough to address the crisis outlined here. The risks described go beyond electoral politics; effective action must also involve community organizing, widespread resistance to authoritarian measures, and strategic preparedness.
How can we implement community defense strategies when the community believes the lies told by the regime and don't think anything is wrong? The people in my neighborhood all think Elon is finding fraud waste and abuse, that the migrants kidnapped to El Salvador are terrorists, and that Trump will make the economy boom.
This situation is one many face right now, and it’s a difficult challenge. Start small and personal—don’t directly confront entrenched beliefs immediately. Instead, focus on creating networks of mutual aid, emergency preparedness, and community support around concrete shared interests (food security, emergency services, community wellness). Demonstrating real-life benefits of community collaboration can quietly undermine propaganda narratives and lay the groundwork for more open dialogue.
As hard as it is, we need to set aside our partisan mindset and focus on being good neighbors and citizens. When some people realize they were lied to, be prepared to accept them and help them.
You say that vulnerable communities should consider emigrating soon. Given this administration's ambitions in North America and Putin's in Europe, where precisely do you think we will be safe/safer?
That’s an important point, El. Unfortunately, there’s no perfect safe haven right now, as authoritarian ambitions are spreading and evolving globally. My advice about vulnerable communities emigrating is more about staying one step ahead of immediate threats and increasing your options and mobility—it’s not about finding a permanent safe spot and never thinking about it again. In this moment, vigilance, adaptability, and ongoing risk reassessment are vital. You’re absolutely right; we’ll all have to keep evaluating safety dynamically, as conditions evolve, no matter where we land.
Good morning peeps! 🌄 it is the unsupreme right-wing fascist corrupt justices fault for giving Krasnov mango mussolini full immunity. Roberts right now sees the grave mistake he made and is trying to rectify he's failings. I'd say a little too late! These judges need to be impeached for ignoring the 14th amendment section 3. They did it on purpose. They are corrupt and bought by the billionaire oligarchs in this country. Now, we have them holding office and destroying every single vital agency that benefits the people. Right now the United States 🇺🇸 is one of the MOST corrupt countries in the world 🌎. The only thing I see that we can not avoid if the courts have a complete collapse and the military turns on its own citizens. Is to have we the people overthrow the government. That would be without bloodshed sadly. This is what happens when people are woefully ignorant about how serious it is to your life when you vote against your own interests just to "own the libs." Or because you're too stupid to see what these republicans were doing and saying. Hate is what's driving these people to the destruction of this country. The project 2025 think tanked should be prosecuted and charged alongside all the spineless evil republicans that enabled this.
I had to drink more coffee to read it all the way through- and will need to reread it- but that’s totally ok!!
A Question keeps coming up for me: US MARSHALS are the federal agents charged with upholding federal crimes like not obeying a federal judges ruling
SOooooo - WHO calls them up(so to speak) Our Senators ? congress as a whole? WE THE PEOPLE ? I honestly don’t know- their website makes it seem like anyone with this knowledge of said federal crime can call- I was thinking if so- it COULD be a good strategy for tens of thousands of us to make those calls…
BUT I’m not sure at all about this- Jamie Raskin likely has an answer🤔🤔🤔any lawyers out there-?? Let me know 👍
You’re asking a critical question, Aubrey. Typically, enforcement of federal judicial rulings relies on agencies like the U.S. Marshals, but in this unprecedented scenario, they may not be reliable. Congress, in theory, could step in, but given the current landscape, that avenue also looks uncertain. Your idea of mass calls or coordinated public pressure is valuable in a democratic society, but here it might be limited by a compromised executive branch actively undermining judicial independence. It’s precisely these kinds of questions that show the importance of developing alternative resilience strategies outside traditional institutions—exactly what we’ll dive into more deeply in the accompanying playbook.
Exactly right, Sally. Given Trump’s explicit directive for U.S. Marshals not to enforce certain judicial rulings, relying on them for accountability is problematic at best and dangerous at worst. This underscores exactly why building alternative community resilience and developing strategies outside the traditional channels is essential right now. It’s crucial we understand these systemic vulnerabilities and prepare accordingly.
Thanks for sharing these valuable resources, Ben! Just a quick note—I’m not Michael, but I’m glad the information resonated with you. I fully support amplifying decentralized movements like these that empower people with practical tactics and strategies.
When Otpor student group organized and catalyzed a movement to overthrow Milosevic- they were advised and supported by people outside Serbia, including CIA. We certainly need help too, a plan not just random independent groups doing local events. So I'm pleased to see your analysis and forthcoming guidance document. Thank you CR.
Pro-democracy creators currently publishing on Substack should be cognizant of the fact that they are operating behind enemy lines, and that the company's backers are antagonistic to your goals. Be sure to export your subscription lists early and often, as there is no way to know when this feature may be removed or curtailed. Assume the worst.
This excellent article by Democracy Docket explains that judges have options other than US Marshal Service.
"And while the marshals have traditionally enforced civil contempt orders, the courts have the power to deputize others to step in if they refuse to do so."
I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep tonight. The reality of this article is much more frightening than anything I’ve read to date. I grew up under the threat of nuclear disaster when every day at noon a siren would blare and we all crawled under our desks. And now I just want to crawl back under my desk. I really don’t see any way out of this developing disaster.
I hear you. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed given the gravity of the situation. What’s different now is that we understand far better how authoritarian systems consolidate power, and we’re better equipped with strategies to resist and build resilience. The strategic playbooks I’m producing are meant to empower individuals and communities to take proactive, meaningful steps—not just to endure, but to respond effectively. Action, even small steps, is the best antidote to fear.
Great historical context for our current unfolding tragedy. My quick take: 1) We need to do something NOW, not organize for the 2026 elections. That’s way too late. For God’s sake, Somebody organize us NOW to March on Washington by the millions and shut that city down. Massive, peaceful civil opposition is the only way to stop this before we slide into all the evils you have outlined. 2) We need to boldly disrupt evangelical religion, like they have disrupted our civil society. Their churches are the breeding ground of fascism in America. 3) Stop supporting the oligarchs with your dollars. Make it painful to own a Tesla. Cancel Amazon, etc. 4) Don’t let the bastards divide us. Unite against fascism.
Michael, your urgency and clarity are spot-on. Large-scale peaceful protests, economic boycotts, and unified opposition are indeed critical parts of resistance. I’d also emphasize building strong, resilient local networks. Sustained, decentralized action that cuts across communities will be essential in protecting democracy and countering authoritarianism. Appreciate you highlighting practical ways forward.
There is already a march on Washington planned for April 5th.
Thanks for mentioning that. Events like this upcoming march can help galvanize national attention. For those attending or supporting, ensure clear goals are set and peaceful action is prioritized, reinforcing broad public support and legitimacy.
At the bottom, you mentioned an “accompanying strategic playbook.“ Is that the section under the “Survival Strategies & Resistance” heading? Or is there something else, maybe something downloadable?
Great question, Heather! This piece is my analysis—where I outline the threats and what’s unfolding. I always follow these analyses with separate, actionable strategic playbooks focused on preparedness and resistance. You can check out my earlier playbooks covering banking, public health, social safety net, and first amendment collapse as examples of what’s to come. The playbook for this analysis will be available shortly, so stay tuned.
Long article but important information. Michael Hopps says it well.
We gotta get out the vote to pissed off Republicans during these 3 upcoming special House elections. It just may be our final opportunity to stop the chaos.
I appreciate your passion, Luke, and special elections certainly matter, but voting alone won’t be enough to address the crisis outlined here. The risks described go beyond electoral politics; effective action must also involve community organizing, widespread resistance to authoritarian measures, and strategic preparedness.
How can we implement community defense strategies when the community believes the lies told by the regime and don't think anything is wrong? The people in my neighborhood all think Elon is finding fraud waste and abuse, that the migrants kidnapped to El Salvador are terrorists, and that Trump will make the economy boom.
This situation is one many face right now, and it’s a difficult challenge. Start small and personal—don’t directly confront entrenched beliefs immediately. Instead, focus on creating networks of mutual aid, emergency preparedness, and community support around concrete shared interests (food security, emergency services, community wellness). Demonstrating real-life benefits of community collaboration can quietly undermine propaganda narratives and lay the groundwork for more open dialogue.
As hard as it is, we need to set aside our partisan mindset and focus on being good neighbors and citizens. When some people realize they were lied to, be prepared to accept them and help them.
We are in early stages. More pain will be the catalyst. Social Security or recession might do it.
You say that vulnerable communities should consider emigrating soon. Given this administration's ambitions in North America and Putin's in Europe, where precisely do you think we will be safe/safer?
That’s an important point, El. Unfortunately, there’s no perfect safe haven right now, as authoritarian ambitions are spreading and evolving globally. My advice about vulnerable communities emigrating is more about staying one step ahead of immediate threats and increasing your options and mobility—it’s not about finding a permanent safe spot and never thinking about it again. In this moment, vigilance, adaptability, and ongoing risk reassessment are vital. You’re absolutely right; we’ll all have to keep evaluating safety dynamically, as conditions evolve, no matter where we land.
Good morning peeps! 🌄 it is the unsupreme right-wing fascist corrupt justices fault for giving Krasnov mango mussolini full immunity. Roberts right now sees the grave mistake he made and is trying to rectify he's failings. I'd say a little too late! These judges need to be impeached for ignoring the 14th amendment section 3. They did it on purpose. They are corrupt and bought by the billionaire oligarchs in this country. Now, we have them holding office and destroying every single vital agency that benefits the people. Right now the United States 🇺🇸 is one of the MOST corrupt countries in the world 🌎. The only thing I see that we can not avoid if the courts have a complete collapse and the military turns on its own citizens. Is to have we the people overthrow the government. That would be without bloodshed sadly. This is what happens when people are woefully ignorant about how serious it is to your life when you vote against your own interests just to "own the libs." Or because you're too stupid to see what these republicans were doing and saying. Hate is what's driving these people to the destruction of this country. The project 2025 think tanked should be prosecuted and charged alongside all the spineless evil republicans that enabled this.
Excuse the typos and poor Grammer. Fat fingers, I guess. 🤷🏽♀️😂
I had to drink more coffee to read it all the way through- and will need to reread it- but that’s totally ok!!
A Question keeps coming up for me: US MARSHALS are the federal agents charged with upholding federal crimes like not obeying a federal judges ruling
SOooooo - WHO calls them up(so to speak) Our Senators ? congress as a whole? WE THE PEOPLE ? I honestly don’t know- their website makes it seem like anyone with this knowledge of said federal crime can call- I was thinking if so- it COULD be a good strategy for tens of thousands of us to make those calls…
BUT I’m not sure at all about this- Jamie Raskin likely has an answer🤔🤔🤔any lawyers out there-?? Let me know 👍
You’re asking a critical question, Aubrey. Typically, enforcement of federal judicial rulings relies on agencies like the U.S. Marshals, but in this unprecedented scenario, they may not be reliable. Congress, in theory, could step in, but given the current landscape, that avenue also looks uncertain. Your idea of mass calls or coordinated public pressure is valuable in a democratic society, but here it might be limited by a compromised executive branch actively undermining judicial independence. It’s precisely these kinds of questions that show the importance of developing alternative resilience strategies outside traditional institutions—exactly what we’ll dive into more deeply in the accompanying playbook.
The US Marshals are under Trump's directive to NOT abide by any judicial ruling, so would not suggest "calling" them.
Exactly right, Sally. Given Trump’s explicit directive for U.S. Marshals not to enforce certain judicial rulings, relying on them for accountability is problematic at best and dangerous at worst. This underscores exactly why building alternative community resilience and developing strategies outside the traditional channels is essential right now. It’s crucial we understand these systemic vulnerabilities and prepare accordingly.
Well done Michael. Appreciate you sharing this information and perspective.
I highly encourage those that don't want to just sit on their hands to give two movements a review:
Generalstrikeus.com
Shutdown315.org
Both are decentralized movements with tons of tactics, strategies, and resources to help resist the fascist advances happening now
Thanks for sharing these valuable resources, Ben! Just a quick note—I’m not Michael, but I’m glad the information resonated with you. I fully support amplifying decentralized movements like these that empower people with practical tactics and strategies.
Apologies for assuming your name was Michael. I thought I read in the comments that someone called you Michael.
Thanks again for the article. Very much appreciated!
When Otpor student group organized and catalyzed a movement to overthrow Milosevic- they were advised and supported by people outside Serbia, including CIA. We certainly need help too, a plan not just random independent groups doing local events. So I'm pleased to see your analysis and forthcoming guidance document. Thank you CR.
Pro-democracy creators currently publishing on Substack should be cognizant of the fact that they are operating behind enemy lines, and that the company's backers are antagonistic to your goals. Be sure to export your subscription lists early and often, as there is no way to know when this feature may be removed or curtailed. Assume the worst.
https://america2.news/the-substack-dilemma-how-creators-are-inadvertently-fueling-americas-failure/
This excellent article by Democracy Docket explains that judges have options other than US Marshal Service.
"And while the marshals have traditionally enforced civil contempt orders, the courts have the power to deputize others to step in if they refuse to do so."
https://www.democracydocket.com/opinion/if-the-marshals-go-rogue-courts-have-other-ways-to-enforce-their-orders/
I’m not sure I’ll be able to sleep tonight. The reality of this article is much more frightening than anything I’ve read to date. I grew up under the threat of nuclear disaster when every day at noon a siren would blare and we all crawled under our desks. And now I just want to crawl back under my desk. I really don’t see any way out of this developing disaster.
I hear you. It’s natural to feel overwhelmed given the gravity of the situation. What’s different now is that we understand far better how authoritarian systems consolidate power, and we’re better equipped with strategies to resist and build resilience. The strategic playbooks I’m producing are meant to empower individuals and communities to take proactive, meaningful steps—not just to endure, but to respond effectively. Action, even small steps, is the best antidote to fear.