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Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 06:46 AM Jan 2025

Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?

...or will the Democratic Party become focused enough to do what must be done?

I realize this is a contentious question, but we now know that we are facing the second rise of the nazi party, and we need to face that reality head-on.

331 replies = new reply since forum marked as read
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Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party? (Original Post) Think. Again. Jan 2025 OP
I understand the question is in jest. Mike 03 Jan 2025 #1
I want to make clear that I did not post this in jest. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #3
Do you want TFG and the GOP to win future races by splitting the vote? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #101
I want us to join forces and share empowerment (and votes) with any and every group... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #106
That is NOT how elections work in the US LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #113
As you should know... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #119
No. Voltaire2 Jan 2025 #2
Good point... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #4
Yeah we need the Democratic Party to grow up. Voltaire2 Jan 2025 #5
Can, and will, the Democratic Party do that? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #6
It is up to us. Voltaire2 Jan 2025 #7
I believe we need a much more determined effort... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #8
I'm paraphrasing Bernie Sanders here, but the two parties are literally the only two organizations CrispyQ Jan 2025 #112
Yes, I understand that... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #140
Sadly, the Democratic Party probably is the most focused anti-fascist organization we have. -nt CrispyQ Jan 2025 #155
Antifa literally means "anti-fascist". Think. Again. Jan 2025 #159
Duh. I know that, but antifa comes with a lot of baggage. -nt CrispyQ Jan 2025 #162
No, there's no baggage... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #165
Good luck with your endeavor. CrispyQ Jan 2025 #173
My only hope to support any and all anti-fascists efforts.. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #176
Great plan ZRB Jan 2025 #9
The Democratic Party DeepWinter Jan 2025 #10
They aren't attached to us to be cut loose anyway ZRB Jan 2025 #11
If you're afraid it would weaken the Democratic Party... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #12
Do you hear yourself? ZRB Jan 2025 #20
My OP question is focused on ... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #22
Forming a new third party ZRB Jan 2025 #23
Anyone fighting against the fascists would weaken them. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #24
How has that worked out in the past? ZRB Jan 2025 #25
During World War 2. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #31
Are you talking about the various European resistance movements? ZRB Jan 2025 #34
Ah, those goal posts moved fast. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #37
How? When? My argument remains the same. ZRB Jan 2025 #39
I believe that a strong, VERY strong opposition... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #40
Again, great plan ZRB Jan 2025 #44
I recognize (and actually appreciate) the snark... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #54
Agreed on that ZRB Jan 2025 #105
Those resistance groups were not what won WWII EdmondDantes_ Jan 2025 #46
I do believe.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #56
I disagree, non-military resistance to the nazis was vital in defeating them. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #111
Hegseth was confirmed last night because of third party votes costing us a key senate seat LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #103
The only 2 third party (independent) held seats in the Senate voted against hegseth. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #109
No way. Elessar Zappa Jan 2025 #13
You're an American first though, right? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #14
No answer? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #75
ANTIFA is pretty much the Communist Party of America. WarGamer Jan 2025 #15
Except they're only anti-fascist and not communist. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #17
Historically... ANTIFA is quite literally communist. WarGamer Jan 2025 #19
Quite literally... "Anti- Fascist". Think. Again. Jan 2025 #21
And we should not let the RW restrict what is Antifa. GreenWave Jan 2025 #30
What is this? Klarkashton Jan 2025 #52
Sorry but no. Klarkashton Jan 2025 #51
Read some history... start with the Wiki entry and I can advise from there WarGamer Jan 2025 #91
I didn't read it I've lived it. Klarkashton Jan 2025 #94
Would you care to explain why? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #141
Who is antifa? mcar Jan 2025 #16
That was the question posed by the OP... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #18
part of their power & effectiveness is there is no individual leader/site/infrastructure to attack cadoman Jan 2025 #48
That's an excellent point of view. Thank You. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #59
... orangecrush Jan 2025 #26
? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #150
The Problem With Antifa Baron2024 Jan 2025 #27
A little too radical? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #32
Antifa Baron2024 Jan 2025 #35
I'm pretty sure the vast majority of Antifa vote Democratic.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #38
Hardcore Anti-Fascists Baron2024 Jan 2025 #41
Great! That's one, .... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #42
No. Antifa has a bad rep. The Madcap Jan 2025 #28
That's a false image that only magats believe... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #33
Agreed The Madcap Jan 2025 #45
Again, the people who have that image.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #55
Not a false image at all... TommyT139 Jan 2025 #65
Since Antifa does not use black box tactics... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #67
Black Bloc TommyT139 Jan 2025 #69
But it is a false image of Antifa because Antifa doesn't do that. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #71
This message was self-deleted by its author AkFemDem Jan 2025 #78
Perhaps that's the problem... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #84
Do you think Antifa could even get people to the polls? LuvLoogie Jan 2025 #29
Correct, which is why my question in this OP is..... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #36
Here's the thing. the Antifa protest is a tactic. LuvLoogie Jan 2025 #43
Political movements begin with an ideology... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #49
They aren't interested. LeftInTX Jan 2025 #47
I don't think .... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #50
Doesn't Antifa think the Democratic Party is fascist? At least that is what I have heard. LeftInTX Jan 2025 #61
Antifa is primarily (only) anti-fascist... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #63
They have referred to the Democratic Party as fascist because we are organized. And now you say I'm LeftInTX Jan 2025 #64
"They"? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #66
Good Fucking Godz. You're talking about ANARCHISTS Brenda Jan 2025 #320
Please. Klarkashton Jan 2025 #53
I'd sincerely like to hear your reservations on this. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #142
It's based on mutual aid and anarchist ideas. Klarkashton Jan 2025 #153
Mutual aid sounds like what we need right now. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #157
We are Democrats. By historical definition we've been anti-fascist since WW2. OAITW r.2.0 Jan 2025 #57
That's a good point, but I seem to be... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #58
We should proudly say that we are anti-Fascist Democrats. But that seems redundant. OAITW r.2.0 Jan 2025 #60
I don't think it's redundant... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #62
Nope. Make something new. TommyT139 Jan 2025 #68
Yes, it's well understood... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #70
Yesssss.... TommyT139 Jan 2025 #72
I agree... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #73
Perhaps a blending of the Democratic party and Antifa... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #74
Wow... is this a *suggestion* that a third party is The Way Forward? lapucelle Jan 2025 #76
That didn't take long, did it? Mosby Jan 2025 #79
"Just spitballing here ... what we need is a third party made up of organized anarchists and Democrats... lapucelle Jan 2025 #82
I believe what we need is... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #143
I believe this forum is for discussing ideas... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #85
Actually, no, and especially not if the *ideas* involve forming a third party. lapucelle Jan 2025 #89
My posting fits very well within those guidelines. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #90
Nah, not really. Advocating for a weird third "Antifa Party" or the co-option of the Democratic Party lapucelle Jan 2025 #116
I disagree that isolating Democratic candidates from any outside votes... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #122
What does that even mean in the context of "Should antifa start a third party / lapucelle Jan 2025 #126
Yeah, doesn't work on me either. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #128
Sorry, but I'm looking at what you actually said. lapucelle Jan 2025 #130
As I mentioned, trying to distort a discussion doesn't work on me. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #131
Your non-tactical retreat is duly noted, lapucelle Jan 2025 #132
Nope, still not working. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #135
... lapucelle Jan 2025 #136
I stand by my posts. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #137
The purpose of this forum is to discuss ideas as to how Democrats can win LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #110
Why are you assuming .... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #118
I live in the real world where votes for third parties only help the GOP LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #123
I think you've figured it out. It is a sad plan, and it ONLY helps the GOP. I just want to know WHY * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #134
I did not mention "third party voting"... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #145
LOL! I'm smarter than most people give me credit for. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #152
Are you? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #156
LOL! Whenever I see anyone go to such great lengths to change the subject and/or * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #163
I don't believe collaborating with third parties that share a goal... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #166
That's not what you said. You know it. I know it. Everyone knows it. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #169
Throughout this entire thread .. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #171
Backpedaling and pretending that what you ACTUALLY wrote is just our imagination. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #174
I have been clear and consistent with my statements... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #177
Yes. you've clearly shown support and advocated for "Antifa" becoming a "formal" party. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #179
I don't see that one "purpose" of yours... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #181
Support Democrats. This is not "Antifa Underground". Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #183
I have said nothing about not supporting Democrats. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #185
LOL! If you're advocating for Antifa to "formally" become a political party * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #188
I encourage you to read my posts. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #189
And I encourage YOU to tell the truth and stop advocating for Antifa to organize into a formal political party. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #190
Perhaps you should look into how parties caucus with each other. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #191
Perhaps YOU should look at how idiotic third party voters cost us TWO elections in favor of Trump. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #194
You believe that third party ideology threatens Democratic party ideology? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #267
Third parties siphon-off votes from Democrats, and that benefits the GOP in close elections. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #294
Yes, they have. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #295
You are correct LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #310
Apparently, The Way Forward for Democrats involves the formation of a third party: The Antifa Party. lapucelle Jan 2025 #138
Perhaps you don't understand that blending two parties makes one larger one. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #146
"Blending" the Democratic Party with an imaginary Antifa Party lapucelle Jan 2025 #160
It's my hope that the majority of Democrats... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #167
And it is my hope that people do not carelessly conflate "working with outside groups" lapucelle Jan 2025 #186
And it is my hope ... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #187
... lapucelle Jan 2025 #269
I stand by my posts. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #271
Generally, people who stand by their words do not claim to be "misinterpreted" lapucelle Jan 2025 #272
I only claimed to be misinterpreted when I was confronted by misinterpretations of my words. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #273
Yes, well, it's probably just another linguistic error on your part. lapucelle Jan 2025 #274
No, I believe it was misinterpretation. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #275
Nah, it was another "linguistic error" on your part. You also *believed* that Sanders and King belong to a third party. lapucelle Jan 2025 #279
Those are my words, not the misinterpretation of my words. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #280
I want to form a strong response to the growing fascism we are facing. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #144
Indeed. It's pure insanity to advocate for third-parties. We know well that they split the vote and benefit the GOP * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #133
Fighting fascism is a worthy goal. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #147
That's not the question or the issue. Advocating for forming a third party is NOT the way to do it. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #154
I don't know if you noticed... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #158
LOL! Whenever I see anyone go to such great lengths to change the subject and/or * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #161
I believe we would strengthen... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #164
It absurd. In fact, you asked a very specific question wherein you're advocating for a third party. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #168
All of my posts, including my OP... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #170
False. Completely false. I can read. It's still there for anyone to read. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #172
I did not mention, nor do I intend... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #175
Advocating for a competing third party siphons votes from Democrats. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #178
I said nothing about a "competing" third party... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #180
If you're advocating that they become a "formal" party then it will compete with Democrats and * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #182
Perhaps you're unaware that third parties... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #184
LOL! Yes... they necessarily ARE. In our two-party system only ONE party wins the white house. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #192
You might not be aware that ... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #195
And YOU might not be aware that I live in the real world * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #197
Yes, what we saw in 2024 suggests we need to add to our ranks... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #198
Ridiculous. Advocating for third parties is NOT "adding to our ranks". Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #202
I encourage you to read my posts. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #203
I encourage you to join me in the real world and support the Democratic Party... Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #205
Growing and strengthening the fight against fascism... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #206
Actually, the point of your OP is to advocate "for Antifa to organize into a formal political party." Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #209
No, I ask the question IF Antifa should become a formal party... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #210
LOL! Just "asking a question" ... and then defending the question does not leave any room for * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #213
Nah, almost 3000 people have viewed it so far, maybe the idea will be considered. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #215
Spare me. You know perfectly well that "views" does not equate to the same number of individuals. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #216
I support Democrats.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #218
Advocating for third parties is NOT supporting Democrats. Period. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #220
I disagree... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #222
No. Third parties siphon votes. "As I've said in this thread many times." 🙄 Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #224
I disagree with your assumption that collaboration will draw Democrats away from the party. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #226
It's not an assumption. It's FACT that third parties siphon votes from Democrats. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #229
I hope you will gain more faith in, and maybe even work toward... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #231
🤡 🤡 🤡 🤡 Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #236
I am also amused by the inability or failure of the OP to answer any issues raised by his "question" LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #324
It is indeed amusing, and predictable. The problem is this: a direct answer and honest response * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #325
Yet you have refused or are unable to answer basic questions about your OP LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #316
I have no answers for you, only the questions I raised in the OP. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #319
How is anyone supposed to take your "question" seriously if you have not looked at the issues raised? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #321
I'm hoping for serious responses and discussion on the topic my questions raised. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #327
Nope n/t Littlered Jan 2025 #77
Care to expand on that? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #149
What bullshit. Antifa is a violent anarchist group, and to even imply that the Democratic Party needs to employ the JohnSJ Jan 2025 #80
Antifa is an anti-fascist group.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #86
That's what they want us to think Easterncedar Jan 2025 #129
No. But our party must define what it means, and underscore opposition to fascism using the acronym in context msfiddlestix Jan 2025 #81
Could you expand on that? I want to fully understand what you mean. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #87
I feel limited in expressing more in depth... msfiddlestix Jan 2025 #97
Yes, Yes, and YES! Think. Again. Jan 2025 #100
The U.S. system only allows two parties, if we're being honest. DJ Synikus Makisimus Jan 2025 #83
Well said. And even with that in mind... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #88
Sorta depends ... DJ Synikus Makisimus Jan 2025 #98
You make great points.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #102
Yeah, you're probably correct. DJ Synikus Makisimus Jan 2025 #108
Oh, also DJ Synikus Makisimus Jan 2025 #115
Good point. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #120
Considering 'Antifa' at most was like 250 students attending various west coast universities and started in the 10's AZJonnie Jan 2025 #92
Good points, and I agree we couldn't just depend on.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #93
The power of Anonymous was the lack of hierarchy - TBF Jan 2025 #95
Thank you. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #96
I strongly disagree with the concept advanced in the OP LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #99
To further clarify... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #104
Again, you are WRONG and your proposal would guarantee further losses LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #107
Many Dems did not turnout to vote... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #114
The way forward is not to help the GOP win with the formation of bogus third parties who will peal away votes LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #117
I agree... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #124
LOL Yet you refused to answer basic questions about the new "formal political party" LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #315
I made no proposal. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #318
I am sorry that you are unable to deal with the real-world issues raised by your "question" LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #323
I appreciate the few serious and well-considered responses I've recieved. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #329
A 5-year old post from Elon's site is what you use to base TBF Jan 2025 #127
66,388 Green Party voters in Pennsylvania brought you Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth. LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #139
The only 2 3rd party seats in the Senate voted against hegseth. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #148
There are no third party seats in the Senate. N/T lapucelle Jan 2025 #193
The independent party holds 2 seats. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #196
So they're not third party. Thank you for confirming your error. N/T lapucelle Jan 2025 #199
You don't consider Independents to be third party? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #201
LOL Do you tire of being wrong? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #233
Because I do not want that. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #234
Then what purpose does it serve to add another third party to the ballot in the real world? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #235
The purpose I stated in the OP... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #238
This concept is simply WRONG in the real world LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #241
Building a strong coalition of Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist voters will.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #242
Not in the real world of US politics LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #245
I disagree, I believe strengthening the vote against the facists will.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #248
You are wrong LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #257
Thank you for your input. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #259
How will this silly plan work in the real world? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #284
Why are you assuming Liberals would want to split their votes? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #290
Again, explain how your silly proposal will work in the real world LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #297
I believe I made it clear... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #299
How will your amusing plan do that? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #302
A strong collaboration... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #303
LOL It is sad that you are unable and have failed on numerous occasions to explain your silly proposal LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #309
Again, I have no proposal... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #311
You might want to delete or amend your OP LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #312
I made no proposal, I asked questions... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #313
It is really sad that you are unable to explain your proposal or even deal with issues raised by your "question" LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #314
I'm sorry you find the issue "amusing". Think. Again. Jan 2025 #317
I am sorry that you are unable to deal with the real-world issues raised by your "question" LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #322
I posed the questions in the hope of serious debate. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #328
Not in the real world LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #286
Correct, the OP is not about votes... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #291
Read your OP, you want to form a "formal political party" for anti-fa supporters LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #296
Perhaps you should read my OP... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #298
I never mentioned anything about winning races... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #300
No, I do not consider the two Independent senators members of a third party. lapucelle Jan 2025 #268
I wonder if that's a widespread opinion... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #270
FALSE. Although they are not affiliated with either party, they do not belong to an official "Independent Party." Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #200
You don't consider Independents to be "third party" ? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #204
I consider myself a part of the reality-based community where making-shit-up * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #207
You're right, I made a linguistic error. Oh, woe is me. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #208
"Linguistic error" 😂🤣😂🤣😂🤣🤪🙄 Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #211
And thank you for the kicks... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #214
I hate to be the one to tell you, my dear... but that's a very low measurement of "success". Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #217
3000 people have now heard my concern that we need to fight stronger against fascism. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #219
LOL... "3000 people" ... pure fantasy. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #221
(Hit "info" on the original post page and scroll down to "views") Think. Again. Jan 2025 #223
Clearly, you do not comprehend the difference between multiple "pageviews" from the same person * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #225
Views is views. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #227
And thank YOU for admitting that "views" and "recs" is the objective... Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #230
But I never said, and don't believe in, either of those things. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #232
No that's false. The OP is promoting the idea of a separate "formal" Antifa party. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #237
Third parties do not necessarily siphon votes away from other parties. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #240
🤡 Stop supporting, defending and advocating for third-parties. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #243
You might be interested in exploring more about how offering voters... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #244
I live in the real world. I know that third-party candidates siphon votes from Democratic candidates. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #246
I support the ideals of Pro-Democracy and Anti-fascism. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #247
LOL. If that were true, then there would be zero support of third-parties to siphon votes from Democrats. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #249
My support for Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist ideology is the clear basis of this OP. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #251
No, that's false. Anyone can clearly see that it's promoting the idea of an Antifa party * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #252
I don't believe collaborating with a new third party that shares our goals... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #254
That's not what you said. You're advocating FOR a third party. Also * Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #256
I don't agree with your assumption.... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #258
Pure fantasy. Dangerous treachery. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #260
Thank you for your input. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #261
You're welcome. Oopsie Daisy Jan 2025 #262
This message was self-deleted by its author Think. Again. Jan 2025 #212
You are using facts in this discussion LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #253
I have ignored no "facts", I have debated assumptions and falsehoods. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #263
You will NOT deal with the facts that your silly proposal will only help trump and his fascists LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #283
Your assumptions are not facts. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #289
Non-responsive. Want to try again? nt TBF Jan 2025 #228
Are you kidding? LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #239
Apparently, enough Democratic voters didn't want Casey. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #250
No - I questioned your 5-year old post, explained it meant nothing - TBF Jan 2025 #266
LOL. LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #282
lolol - you are still avoiding the original topic - TBF Jan 2025 #287
And I absolutely guarantee that most can't define fascism. WarGamer Jan 2025 #278
You men like getting an ID card 'n pay dues and stuff? marble falls Jan 2025 #121
My suggestion is to join forces with and empower as many pro-Democracy... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #125
I agree fwiw - although voicing that in these quarters TBF Jan 2025 #288
Thank you, they do seem to be determined though. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #292
Excellent point. You are who you vote for. OLDMDDEM Jan 2025 #151
They have to take JustAnotherGen Jan 2025 #255
People who hate Democrats should really just be honest and join third parties (make LOTS third parties betsuni Jan 2025 #264
Yeah, but my OP is about whether we (the U.S.) need a stronger position against fascism on our political stage. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #265
The OP is about whether or not it's time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party. lapucelle Jan 2025 #281
"...or will the Democratic Party become focused enough to do what must be done?" Think. Again. Jan 2025 #293
Purity test? Ilikepurple Jan 2025 #285
I'm watching this movie tonight called the Underground 1941 and it's about the Nazis and it's scary that it could kimbutgar Jan 2025 #276
Yes, it is happening here, but so many don't want to face it, just like in germany in the 1930's. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #277
YES!!! samnsara Jan 2025 #301
The GOP would think this is an excellent idea. Turbineguy Jan 2025 #304
Maybe we should stop allowing the GOP to make our decisions. Think. Again. Jan 2025 #305
Now that's an excellent idea! Turbineguy Jan 2025 #306
The GOP will campaign on anti-fa being the bad guys if this silly proposal is adopted LetMyPeopleVote Jan 2025 #326
Are we really setting our strategies around whether the rightwing will call us names? Think. Again. Jan 2025 #331
We are antifa. Not to be confused with the anarchists. 58Sunliner Jan 2025 #307
I absolutely agree... Think. Again. Jan 2025 #308
It is time United Airlines became a tasty snack? Gore1FL Jan 2025 #330

Mike 03

(18,425 posts)
1. I understand the question is in jest.
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 07:04 AM
Jan 2025

The reason I wouldn't want this to happen now is that it gives Trump another target that he can use and abuse in so many different ways. Suddenly every enemy that doesn't fit neatly into one of the already-decided list of Out Groups will be dismissed as Antifa. Any protest, march, or anti-Trump event that gets out of hand will be the work of Antifa. He could even use it as justification to declare emergencies, impose martial law.

Maybe it's too early to say this, but I feel like the Democratic party is finding its footing. The opposition may not be as strident as some of us would like, but it seems to be taking shape. I'm also seeing increasingly better ideas for resistance.

It just takes some time to adjust and figure out what will work vs what sounds like a great idea in a tweet but in reality just won't fly or is totally ineffective.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
3. I want to make clear that I did not post this in jest.
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 07:20 AM
Jan 2025

And you raise a good point about giving trump a scapegoat for everything, but I believe he will do that anyway somehow, and he has shown he doesn't need any kind of justification to do what he will, he'll just make up something else anyway.

I also don't believe we should continue with the failed method of trying to second guess what he will do just to formulate what we should do. I believe we need to stop being reactive and defensive to his actions, and become pro-active ourselves.

We are on the very edge of a seriously dangerous situation and I think we should be preparing for that now.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
101. Do you want TFG and the GOP to win future races by splitting the vote?
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:03 PM
Jan 2025

Why? We lost a number of races due to people voting for fringe parties?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
106. I want us to join forces and share empowerment (and votes) with any and every group...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:18 PM
Jan 2025

...who is willing to focus on fighting against the fascist threat our Democracy faces.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
113. That is NOT how elections work in the US
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:29 PM
Jan 2025

Your proposal to add yet another third party would guarantee that the GOP will win more races. Again, Hillary and Kamala both lost due to third party votes. We lost a number of senate seats due to third party votes.

Why do you want the GOP to win more races?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
119. As you should know...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:57 PM
Jan 2025

...people who are not registered Democrats vote for Democratic tickets all the time.

If the collaborative intent is to defeat the nazis, we would GAIN votes for the strongest anti-fascist candidates.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
4. Good point...
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 07:23 AM
Jan 2025

...but perhaps we do need an explicitly anti-fascist political party to oppose the one most important political challenge of these times, fascism?

Voltaire2

(15,368 posts)
5. Yeah we need the Democratic Party to grow up.
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 07:27 AM
Jan 2025

The idiotic political system in our country makes it virtually impossible for a third party to have anything other than a spoiler role, and even that is very difficult.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
6. Can, and will, the Democratic Party do that?
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 07:33 AM
Jan 2025

Do we have the.... seriousness that's now needed in us?

CrispyQ

(39,536 posts)
112. I'm paraphrasing Bernie Sanders here, but the two parties are literally the only two organizations
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:29 PM
Jan 2025

that have the infrastructure to put someone in the White House. It's why Sanders switched to a dem when he ran in 2016 cuz no other party comes close to what the dems & repubs have. Sadly, it's not just the presidency, it's most congressional seats, too, that need the kind of money & organization the two parties have. Our electoral process has become a for-profit charade to make us proles think we have a say in how things are run. Hard not to channel Zappa in times like these.

“The illusion of freedom will continue as long as it's profitable to continue the illusion. At the point where the illusion becomes too expensive to maintain, they will just take down the scenery, they will pull back the curtains, they will move the tables and chairs out of the way and you will see the brick wall at the back of the theater.” -Frank Zappa

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
140. Yes, I understand that...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:23 AM
Jan 2025

...and obviously I'm hoping to put a Democrat back in the White House AND in every possible Congressional seat, as well as on the Supreme Court.

However, at this moment in time we are trying to fight down fascism in America, and I believe we need to support and build-up the most focused anti-fascist organization we have.

CrispyQ

(39,536 posts)
155. Sadly, the Democratic Party probably is the most focused anti-fascist organization we have. -nt
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 11:38 AM
Jan 2025

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
165. No, there's no baggage...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:32 PM
Jan 2025

...there is only the republican's false claims against them, which only rightwingers (or very weak Democrats) want to believe.

CrispyQ

(39,536 posts)
173. Good luck with your endeavor.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:55 PM
Jan 2025

The right has more successfully defined the democratic party than the democratic party itself has, & the dems are way more organized & better financed than antifa, so good luck rebranding antifa into anything other than a radical leftist org.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
176. My only hope to support any and all anti-fascists efforts..
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:05 PM
Jan 2025

...I have no interest in whatever the rightwing has branded anyone.

ZRB

(465 posts)
9. Great plan
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 03:18 PM
Jan 2025

Advocating for a left wing political party to form and undercut the Democratic party even further! The Green Party damage not enough for you? I just can't even with this...

 

DeepWinter

(931 posts)
10. The Democratic Party
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 03:25 PM
Jan 2025

has a Big Tent. More than a few times, even here on DU, it's been argued "too big". It's becoming very hard to get people on the same page, even close to the same page.

I would argue Antifa is the Anarchy Party. Maybe they have like goals, but they have very different methods. Far less articulate. Cutting them loose would do no harm. As well as like minded and mannered groups.

ZRB

(465 posts)
11. They aren't attached to us to be cut loose anyway
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 03:47 PM
Jan 2025

We still don't need any additional leftist parties forming to attempt to syphon the far left further away from our party, as the OP seems to want.

ZRB

(465 posts)
20. Do you hear yourself?
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 04:22 AM
Jan 2025

How are progressive goals achieved by pulling voters away from the party?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
22. My OP question is focused on ...
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 05:26 AM
Jan 2025

.... one way to increase the chances of causing the destruction of the current nazi party, which would of course be beneficial to progressive goals and the Democratic Party.

ZRB

(465 posts)
25. How has that worked out in the past?
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:08 PM
Jan 2025

When is the last time a fringe third party helped anyone BUT the fascists?

ZRB

(465 posts)
34. Are you talking about the various European resistance movements?
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:47 PM
Jan 2025

Comparing them to the current day Antifa is a massive insult to genuine heroes. And I thought we were discussing US Politics. Find me a time when a fringe third party has ever helped US Democrats, and don't say Ross Perot; he wasn't fringe.

ZRB

(465 posts)
39. How? When? My argument remains the same.
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:56 PM
Jan 2025

Democrats are hurt by fringe third parties, especially at the presidential level, but also in a reputational sense. Encouraging yet another third party does nothing to help the only viable progressive party. You want to build a third party so much, go undercover and build a right wing one to syphon off the most gullible Republicans. That might actually achieve something.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
40. I believe that a strong, VERY strong opposition...
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 08:01 PM
Jan 2025

...to the current nazi administration is our Democracy's best bet.

ZRB

(465 posts)
44. Again, great plan
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 08:31 PM
Jan 2025

Strong opposition that results in a narrow Republican victory in 2028 sounds just great. Amazing plan.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
54. I recognize (and actually appreciate) the snark...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:35 AM
Jan 2025

...but on a serious note, I DO believe that a strong focus on defeating the fascism that the "republican" party is now living for, is the plan we need to protect our Democracy.

ZRB

(465 posts)
105. Agreed on that
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:18 PM
Jan 2025

I just think it needs to be done within the party. If this were a parliamentary system, or ranked choice voting, you'd have a much stronger point about building smaller opposition parties.

EdmondDantes_

(426 posts)
46. Those resistance groups were not what won WWII
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 10:36 PM
Jan 2025

What won the war was a shit load of dead Russians and then a two front war.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
103. Hegseth was confirmed last night because of third party votes costing us a key senate seat
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:14 PM
Jan 2025

Do you want the GOP to keep winning key senate races due to third party voters? The GOP picked up a number of Senate seats due to third parties. Your suggestion would guarantee that the GOP could continue to win these races



WarGamer

(16,990 posts)
19. Historically... ANTIFA is quite literally communist.
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 11:41 PM
Jan 2025

ANTIFA is short for Antifaschistische Aktion, quite literally a front group for the Soviet Communist Party in Germany in 1932...

Recognize the flag?




https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antifaschistische_Aktion

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
21. Quite literally... "Anti- Fascist".
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 05:21 AM
Jan 2025

Since they are not a front group for a communist party (or any party) here in America, they stand alone as Antifa.

GreenWave

(11,104 posts)
30. And we should not let the RW restrict what is Antifa.
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:21 PM
Jan 2025

It is a broad coalition of freedom lovers and fighters the world over.

mcar

(44,506 posts)
16. Who is antifa?
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 09:23 PM
Jan 2025

Do they have a website? Is it an organized group that actually stands for something?

How will they run people for elected office? What is their platform? Their funding?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
18. That was the question posed by the OP...
Fri Jan 24, 2025, 10:34 PM
Jan 2025

"Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?"

cadoman

(1,228 posts)
48. part of their power & effectiveness is there is no individual leader/site/infrastructure to attack
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 12:59 AM
Jan 2025

It's completely flat.

I think Democrats could embrace ANTIFA simply by stating that we are anti-fascist as part of campaign rhetoric and perhaps a plank of the party.

If MAGA is fascist, it makes sense that we'd be anti-that, right? Simply by owning the term we make MAGA have to decide whether they want to be pro-fascism or part of ANTIFA with us.

 

Baron2024

(1,492 posts)
27. The Problem With Antifa
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:16 PM
Jan 2025

The problem with Antifa is that they are mostly very radical anti-capitalist and that will put off a lot of people. You can be anti-fascist and not against the private sector. All antifa are anti-fascists. Not all anti-fascists are antifa. So I think that they are a little too radical for mainstream politics. But we all should certainly be anti-fascist. Just not antifa. That is my two cents. Your views may differ.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
32. A little too radical?
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:44 PM
Jan 2025

Do you realize what we are up against?

We are up against full-blown nazis.

I don't believe we can be "too radical" in opposition to that.

 

Baron2024

(1,492 posts)
35. Antifa
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:48 PM
Jan 2025

If Antifa wants to join us in our fight to defeat the MAGA Fascists, great. I am just not an anti-capitalist like most of them and do not think they would function well in a mainstream political party. Just my two cents. Your views may differ. I am anti-fascist, just not antifa. If they want to ally with us, that would be fine.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
38. I'm pretty sure the vast majority of Antifa vote Democratic....
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:52 PM
Jan 2025

...my question is whether it's time for the vast majority of Democrats to become hardcore Anti-fascists.

 

Baron2024

(1,492 posts)
41. Hardcore Anti-Fascists
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 08:04 PM
Jan 2025

I have been a hard core anti-fascist my entire life. My Uncles fought in World War Two. I almost went into ROTC in College but I had a health condition that prevented me. I think that all real Americans must be anti-fascist to some degree. And if someone is a fascist, then by definition they can not be a real American. We have a 250 year history of fighting Tyranny in this country. We defeated the British in the 18th Century. We defeated the Confederates in the 19th Century. We defeated the Nazis in the 20th Century. I have hope and faith that we will defeat the MAGA Fascists in the 21st Century. Some people may be a little late to the party, but if someone wants to become a "hardcore anti-fascist" I would welcome them to the camp.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
42. Great! That's one, ....
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 08:10 PM
Jan 2025

....now, we need a strong opposition to the nazis in power, so, do you think it's time for Antifa to become a formal political party?

The Madcap

(1,119 posts)
28. No. Antifa has a bad rep.
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:20 PM
Jan 2025

Though I would think most agree that we should be anti-Fascist, I believe the image of Antifa is young thugs dressed in black burning Portland. That is an exaggeration, but that seems to be the image. I don't think it would be beneficial to keep that image going.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
33. That's a false image that only magats believe...
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:46 PM
Jan 2025

...because it was an image created by magats, and if that image scares them, all the better.

The Madcap

(1,119 posts)
45. Agreed
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 09:18 PM
Jan 2025

But unfortunately, that's one that many people have. It would be difficult to overcome.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
55. Again, the people who have that image....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:38 AM
Jan 2025

....are not on the side of Democracy or we wouldn't be in this position in the first place.

TommyT139

(1,302 posts)
65. Not a false image at all...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:35 AM
Jan 2025

Yet also not equal to Antifa.

You are thinking of the Black Bloc, which is more of a set of protest tactics than a group. While the tactics can include a level of violence, they are mostly aimed at reducing the ability for individuals to be identified. So protesters will wear all black, including masks and hats, with goggles in case of tear gas from police.

Other tactics might include operational security -- leaving phones at home (to keep police and -- these days, opponents -- from picking up communications, or using Stingray technology to get info on whose cell phones are in the area. Some group members may hang back, for safety, documenting, calling lawyers, etc.

Many of the chino Nazis use similar ideas -- for instance, dressing identically helps anonymity and also gives the impression that an organization is larger than it is -- except wearing all red or chinos and white masks has more fashy a flavor if you ask me. "Fashy" as in fascist -- not fashionable.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
67. Since Antifa does not use black box tactics...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:51 AM
Jan 2025

...the image of them using black box tactics is false.

Response to Think. Again. (Reply #33)

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
84. Perhaps that's the problem...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:40 PM
Jan 2025

...but we must try to get ALL Democrats to stand strongly and agressively against the fascism we're facing.

Either we defeat them or we lose our Democracy.

LuvLoogie

(7,995 posts)
29. Do you think Antifa could even get people to the polls?
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:20 PM
Jan 2025

AOC is Antifa in the political form. Jasmine Crocket is Antifa in the polital form. Bernie Sanders is Antifa in the political form.

Antifa is a form of organized street protest. Moving into electoral politics needs a basic infrastructure of people, time, and policy---and persuasion.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
36. Correct, which is why my question in this OP is.....
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 07:48 PM
Jan 2025

"Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?"

LuvLoogie

(7,995 posts)
43. Here's the thing. the Antifa protest is a tactic.
Sat Jan 25, 2025, 08:19 PM
Jan 2025

Antifa has to decide if it is going to promote already existing infrastructure. I can see Antifa transitioning to a get-out-the-vote ground/social media operation. But we have to start using social media more intelligently and not look down our noses at it's denizens.

Moving people to act is important and we have to leverage the power of social media. Antifa, as a movement shows up always as a counter protest or as a human shield to progressive protest actions. It engages in skirmishes, and transitioning into long haul electoral vision is a different animal.

I would say that most of your Antifa street presence is made up of those motivated by the adrenalin of conflict. Left leaning politics is its juice. I am skeptical that Antifa is interested in long term goals. They are in-the-moment, in-your-face opposition to right-wing street presence. That's it.

Any number of the individuals might mature and get into electoral politics, or focus on a career. Some might already have a career and family and do it for the thrill. They target fascist messaging in the public arena, physically. I can't see any kind of transition as a party.

We'll see what rises out of the ashes of our democracy.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
49. Political movements begin with an ideology...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:27 AM
Jan 2025

...the Anti-fascist ideology is now very much needed, and extremely relevant.

LeftInTX

(32,761 posts)
47. They aren't interested.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 12:44 AM
Jan 2025

This is what they do:
Direct action
Community organizing
Mutual aid
Harassment
Digital activism
Doxing
Picketing
Political violence
Protest marching

If you want a Political Party that is into protest it's the Party of Socialism and Liberation
If Antifa votes, it probably who they vote for. PSL have their own candidates. They hate the Democratic Party.
I think Antifa likely hates the party too. Antifa are against any military. PSL wants to abandon the military.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Party_for_Socialism_and_Liberation




Some people just want to be "anti-system"

On the morning of Jan 20th they were carrying a Free Palestine banner and all wearing keffiyehs, by afternoon they ditched the keffiyehs for sarapes to immigration rights. That's how they work. Very quick. No real infrastructure. They literally shut city council meetings down numerous times. That's why I can't see Antifa as a political party. They aren't into decorum or that kind of stuff. They even harass congressman Joaquin Castro. They consider Castro to be right wing. They accuse Mayor Ron Nirenberg and Joaquin Castro of being part of the military industrial complex.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
50. I don't think ....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:30 AM
Jan 2025

....we need a party that is "into" protest.

I think right now we need a party with a core value (and dare I say passion) of putting down fascism and protecting Democracy.

LeftInTX

(32,761 posts)
61. Doesn't Antifa think the Democratic Party is fascist? At least that is what I have heard.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:50 AM
Jan 2025

Antifa is primarily a direct action and protest movement.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
63. Antifa is primarily (only) anti-fascist...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:59 AM
Jan 2025

...hence the name.

What you have "heard" is fascist psy-op.

LeftInTX

(32,761 posts)
64. They have referred to the Democratic Party as fascist because we are organized. And now you say I'm
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:24 AM
Jan 2025

listening to fascist psy-op? OK...I get it. Anything negative about antifa is fascist?
And to Antifa everything, just like you said.

OKay...
Well, good luck getting them organized!

Klarkashton

(3,295 posts)
153. It's based on mutual aid and anarchist ideas.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 11:31 AM
Jan 2025

Is doesn't conform to political party structure.

I don't know what else to tell you about this.

OAITW r.2.0

(30,073 posts)
57. We are Democrats. By historical definition we've been anti-fascist since WW2.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:39 AM
Jan 2025

Crazy, but IKE was the greatest Democrat elected Republican President I can remember.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
58. That's a good point, but I seem to be...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:43 AM
Jan 2025

...getting some pushback on the idea of building up those of us who represent our more blatantly anti-fascist values.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
62. I don't think it's redundant...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:51 AM
Jan 2025

....I think it's currently the only topic that matters, the only position we should be taking. the only thing worth saying right now.

TommyT139

(1,302 posts)
68. Nope. Make something new.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:52 AM
Jan 2025

How about being antifascist without calling such a group "Antifa"? That word already has decades of history, and many different connotations depending on a particular context and time period.

More importantly for this thread, trying to make a group and then calling it Antifa just gives the magats what they've wanted for years now. (Imagine some civil servants stepping up and claiming to be the Deep State -- rethugs would be thrilled.) they would love a group to blame, especially for January 6th.

Indeed, messages went around in some radical channels telling anti fascist folks to not show up in DC. A lack of anti-insurrectionists likely helped undermine Trump's wish for an excuse to declare martial law.

It also places anyone in that group immediately into a domestic terrorist category, that comes with extremely harsh penalties in some states. Just Google "Cop City" in Georgia, for an example of just how laws can be twisted against peaceful protesters whom the state labels domestic terrorists. Even the people who simply contributed to bail funds are being charged as if they had sent gun money to Isis.

(As a side note, you do remember that everything posted on this board is public and comes up on a Google search, right? Does this give no one else pause?)

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
70. Yes, it's well understood...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:57 AM
Jan 2025

...that the current fascist administration will be using everything to defeat any opposition.

I don't see how that should stop us from using the most effective opposition.

And I believe our most effective opposition would be to focus on defeating their fascism.

TommyT139

(1,302 posts)
72. Yesssss....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 03:03 AM
Jan 2025

I don't think that dressing up as Antifa is that path.

Honestly, I don't think that street protests are that path either, at this point. Even in a blue state, authorities allow neo-nazis latitude that peaceful protesters don't get.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
73. I agree...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 03:38 AM
Jan 2025

...which is why I never suggested dressing up as anything or doing street protests.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
74. Perhaps a blending of the Democratic party and Antifa...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 10:38 AM
Jan 2025

...to become ...

"The Democracy Party".

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
82. "Just spitballing here ... what we need is a third party made up of organized anarchists and Democrats...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 12:40 PM
Jan 2025

... I even thunk up up a cool name ..."

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
143. I believe what we need is...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:27 AM
Jan 2025

...a stronger response to the fascism that is setting in to our Democracy.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
85. I believe this forum is for discussing ideas...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:42 PM
Jan 2025

...for ways to strengthen the Left against the fascists that are now in control, isn't it?

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
89. Actually, no, and especially not if the *ideas* involve forming a third party.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 02:04 PM
Jan 2025
Discuss the future of the Democratic Party and the left, strategies to rebuild the party's influence and reach, and tactics to retake political power from the right.


lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
116. Nah, not really. Advocating for a weird third "Antifa Party" or the co-option of the Democratic Party
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:43 PM
Jan 2025

into a weird hybrid antifa-*democtratic* "Democracy Party" does not fall within the parameters of the discussion.

Furthermore, a weird third antifa party is not the way forward for the Democratic Party, and if the assertion is that the way forward for the *left* is for Democrats to leave the Democratic Party and form a weird third party with antifa called the "Democracy Party", then that narrative is better peddled somewhere not named Democratic Underground.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
122. I disagree that isolating Democratic candidates from any outside votes...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:00 PM
Jan 2025

...is a good strategy.

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
126. What does that even mean in the context of "Should antifa start a third party /
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:09 PM
Jan 2025

Should Democrats break away from the Democratic Party and start a third party with antifa called the Democracy Party"?

Sorry, "Quick! Look over here!" doesn't work on me.



lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
130. Sorry, but I'm looking at what you actually said.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:36 PM
Jan 2025




===================

When the third party bullshit couldn't be defended, you made up some new stuff about an apocryphal call to "isolate Democratic candidates from outside votes" and announced that you don't agree with an idea that YOU brought up and that NO ONE BUT YOU appears to be discussing.



Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
131. As I mentioned, trying to distort a discussion doesn't work on me.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:52 PM
Jan 2025

Thank you for your input.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
110. The purpose of this forum is to discuss ideas as to how Democrats can win
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:22 PM
Jan 2025

The formation of a third party is a way to guarantee that the GOP will win future elections. Why do you want Democrats and the Democratic Party to lose elections?


Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
118. Why are you assuming ....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:54 PM
Jan 2025

...that a cooperative effort between 2 pro-Democracy parties to defeat a fascist a 3rd fascist party would not turnout the needed votes?

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
123. I live in the real world where votes for third parties only help the GOP
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:02 PM
Jan 2025

How in the real world would another fringe left wing third party which would only take votes from democratic candidates help defeat the GOP and trump? Both Hillary and Kamala lost key states due to third party voters. The PA senate seat was flipped due to third party voters.

Again, why do you want to form a left wing fringe party to help the GOP win future elections? The American system of government is NOT a parliamentary system and here third parties only help GOP candidates. A vote for a third party candidate is a vote against the Democratic candidate in the real world. You have failed to explain how your amusing but sad plan will help advance the goals of the Democratic Party

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
134. I think you've figured it out. It is a sad plan, and it ONLY helps the GOP. I just want to know WHY *
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 07:03 PM
Jan 2025

* anyone would suggest and promote or advocate the insanity that is "third party voting".

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
145. I did not mention "third party voting"...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:30 AM
Jan 2025

I suggested strengthening an organization that fights fascism.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
152. LOL! I'm smarter than most people give me credit for.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 11:31 AM
Jan 2025
>> I did not mention "third party voting"...
Indeed. Plausible deniability is important when someone ventures out onto thin ice like that. I can assure you that the meaning was clear.

>> Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?
I can assure you that this statement isn't as ambiguous or benign as you're trying to convince me it is. Any "formal political party" doesn't exist simply to exist. I'm not an idiot, thank you very much. A new party to oppose the GOP will draw votes from the Democrats and ultimately benefit the Republicans.

>> I suggested strengthening an organization that fights fascism.
No you didn't. You suggested that it's time for "Antifa to organize into a formal political party" ... it's as plain as day. Crystal clear. No two ways about it.

I repeat: A new party to oppose the GOP will draw votes from the Democrats and ultimately benefit the Republicans.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
156. Are you?
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 11:58 AM
Jan 2025

Did you notice the only 2 third party senatoes voted with Dems against hegseth? (As they usuaully do).

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
163. LOL! Whenever I see anyone go to such great lengths to change the subject and/or *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:28 PM
Jan 2025

* use convoluted pretzel "logic" or provide irrelevant info (especially when trying to justify advocating for a third party to siphon-off votes from the Democrats) it tells me that they know the weakness of their arguments, and that they are skating on very thin ice.

>> 156. Are you?
Yes.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
166. I don't believe collaborating with third parties that share a goal...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:35 PM
Jan 2025

...would weaken our efforts toward that goal, I believe it would strengthen our efforts toward that goal.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
169. That's not what you said. You know it. I know it. Everyone knows it.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:48 PM
Jan 2025

Please refer to post 168 to consolidate this exchange. I'm not going to waste time repeating my self in two forks of this absurd exchange.

https://www.democraticunderground.com/?com=view_post&forum=1324&pid=1075

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
171. Throughout this entire thread ..
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:54 PM
Jan 2025

...my posts have focused purely on encouraging and empowering anti-fascist efforts, and I will continue to encourage discussion on how that might be accomplished.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
174. Backpedaling and pretending that what you ACTUALLY wrote is just our imagination.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:00 PM
Jan 2025

Whatever you "think" you're doing... you're not actually doing. This thread is an embarrassing trainwreck of anti-Democratic party rhetoric and smears. Advocating for a competing "formal party" to supposedly "fight fascism" is pure fantasy.

I and others have called it out for what it is. We do not support third-parties. I strongly encourage you to self-delete.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
179. Yes. you've clearly shown support and advocated for "Antifa" becoming a "formal" party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:40 PM
Jan 2025

This will only serve ONE purpose... and it will siphon votes that would otherwise go to Democrats. It will kneecap and harm the Democratic party and this will benefit the Republicans.

>> 177. I have been clear and consistent with my statements...
Crystal clear. I see exactly what this thread is about. Please self-delete.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
181. I don't see that one "purpose" of yours...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:47 PM
Jan 2025

...my only statements have been about supporting groups (yes, even third parties) in a collaborative effort to fight the fascism that our Democracy faces.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
188. LOL! If you're advocating for Antifa to "formally" become a political party *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:21 PM
Jan 2025

* then that most certainly advocating support for a THIRD PARTY and, indeed you are NOT supporting Democrats!

These half-hearted, awkward and sloppy denials reveal the weakness in the arguments being made.

Pretending that you didn't say something when everyone (including myself) can easily see what you said serves no useful purpose.

This is not "Antifa Underground". We are not here to advocate for the creation of third parties that will compete with Democrats. We are here to support and strengthen our own party.

I strongly encourage you to self-delete this thread. It's an abomination that directly contradicts the mission of this website.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
190. And I encourage YOU to tell the truth and stop advocating for Antifa to organize into a formal political party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:32 PM
Jan 2025
This is Democratic Underground, not Antifa Underground.

Antifa will not co-opt the Democratic party. Anyone who wants to help Antifa organize into a formal political party is someone who WANTS to sabotage Democrats and who wants to siphon votes from Democrats.

We don't allow anyone to advocate for helping and strengthening the Green Party, do we? Gee... I wonder why not.

This is the same thing. We have a defacto two-party system. Third parties are not allies. They HARM DEMOCRATS.

At this point, your best option is to self-delete.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
194. Perhaps YOU should look at how idiotic third party voters cost us TWO elections in favor of Trump.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:38 PM
Jan 2025

There was no "caucusing with the Democrats" in their efforts to siphon votes and make it easier for the GOP to win in close states. Think. Harder. Think. Better. Think. Intelligently. Think. Rationally. Leave the fantasy and emotions at the door.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
294. Third parties siphon-off votes from Democrats, and that benefits the GOP in close elections.
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 07:49 AM
Jan 2025

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
310. You are correct
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:25 PM
Jan 2025

In the real world this proposal will only help trump and his fellow fascists

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
138. Apparently, The Way Forward for Democrats involves the formation of a third party: The Antifa Party.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 08:04 PM
Jan 2025

Alternately, Democrats could break away from the Democratic Party to form a third party with antifa called The Democracy Party. It would be a "blend".

"But hey, just spitballin' here..."


lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
160. "Blending" the Democratic Party with an imaginary Antifa Party
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:04 PM
Jan 2025

to form a new party to replace the Democratic Party sounds like a harebrained scheme.

In addition, it relies on the unreasonable assumption that the majority of current Democrats would go along with the plan.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
167. It's my hope that the majority of Democrats...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:39 PM
Jan 2025

...recognize the danger our Democracy is in and are willing to work with groups outside of our party to save it.

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
186. And it is my hope that people do not carelessly conflate "working with outside groups"
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:11 PM
Jan 2025

with the fabulist notion of “abandoning the Democratic Party to start an new party with antifa”.

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
272. Generally, people who stand by their words do not claim to be "misinterpreted"
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 09:47 PM
Jan 2025

when confronted with them.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
273. I only claimed to be misinterpreted when I was confronted by misinterpretations of my words.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 09:50 PM
Jan 2025

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
279. Nah, it was another "linguistic error" on your part. You also *believed* that Sanders and King belong to a third party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:31 PM
Jan 2025

Your words are clear as day.







Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
133. Indeed. It's pure insanity to advocate for third-parties. We know well that they split the vote and benefit the GOP *
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 07:01 PM
Jan 2025

* because the US has a de-facto two-party system. Third parties never win national elections. --- I know that's why Jill Stein ran. Supported and funded by both the GOP and Russia. It was a wild success for them.

I wonder why it is that the "third party" option is being pushed so heavily now. It's weird, isn't it?

I know that these types of things are always couched with "just asking questions" and "we're all just spit-balling and brainstorming here" but... seriously... COME ON!!

I'm not fooled. I just want to know what's going on and why anyone would advocate for something that obviously weakens the Democratic party and Democratic candidates (and then BENEFITS the GOP and Russia).

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
154. That's not the question or the issue. Advocating for forming a third party is NOT the way to do it.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 11:36 AM
Jan 2025

As someone who lives in the real world, and as someone who's not trying to sabotage and kneecap Democrats, and as someone who sees no value in gaslighting or other acts of treachery and betrayal against the Democrats... I strongly suggest that people should be loyal to the Democratic party and work to support and strengthen it, rather than creating yet another opposition party that weakens the Democratic vote and benefits the Republicans. Such talk and such action is very dangerous.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
158. I don't know if you noticed...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:01 PM
Jan 2025

...but the only 2 third party senators voted with Dems against hegseth, as they usually do.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
161. LOL! Whenever I see anyone go to such great lengths to change the subject and/or *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:26 PM
Jan 2025

* use convoluted pretzel "logic" or provide irrelevant info (especially when trying to justify advocating for a third party to siphon-off votes from the Democrats) it tells me that they know the weakness of their arguments, and that they are skating on very thin ice.

>> 158. I don't know if you noticed...
I "notice" much more than many people realize.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
164. I believe we would strengthen...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:29 PM
Jan 2025

...our position against the nazis by joining forces with other anti-fascist organizations.

I don't think that's a weak argument.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
168. It absurd. In fact, you asked a very specific question wherein you're advocating for a third party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:46 PM
Jan 2025
>> Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?
You didn't ask if it was time for "Antifa" to join the Democrats. You also didn't ask whether we should "join forces". Instead, you proposed and advocated for a third party that will compete with the Democratic party and that will siphon votes from the Democratic party. All this, while at the same time denigrating, shitting on, and smearing Democrats by calling us weak and incompetent and unfocused.

Seriously, these types of tantrums do not help anyone (EXCEPT for the Republicans.)

>> I don't think that's a weak argument.
Obviously not. It's an emotional one that's not very well considered. But as an adult who lives in the real world, I can assure you that it's a very bad idea.

Try again. Think harder.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
170. All of my posts, including my OP...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:49 PM
Jan 2025

...encourage empowering the fight against fascism, and nothing else.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
172. False. Completely false. I can read. It's still there for anyone to read.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 12:54 PM
Jan 2025
>> Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?
This is a post advocating for this violent group to become a "formal political party" that will siphon off votes from the Democratic party.

>> ...and nothing else.
Bullshit. I can see what you said. Plain as day. --- This backpedaling and trying to reframe a losing argument serves no purpose. Pretending that you meant something OTHER than what you CLEARLY wrote is absurd.

Cut your losses on this notion of sabotaging and kneecapping the Democratic party. I urge you to self-delete the OP and move on.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
175. I did not mention, nor do I intend...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:02 PM
Jan 2025

...to "siphon off votes from the Democratic Party".

Please do not deliberately misinterpret my words.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
178. Advocating for a competing third party siphons votes from Democrats.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:38 PM
Jan 2025
>> Please do not deliberately misinterpret my words.
If you're advocating for third parties, then indeed you ARE advocating to siphon-off votes from Democrats. There are no two ways about it.

This is a fact. Denying obvious facts just makes this thread more of a trainwreck than it already is. I encourage you to self-delete.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
180. I said nothing about a "competing" third party...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:45 PM
Jan 2025

...in fact, in numerous posts, I spoke about "collaboration".

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
182. If you're advocating that they become a "formal" party then it will compete with Democrats and *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 01:49 PM
Jan 2025

* it will siphon off votes for Democrats. You don't have to use the word "competing" for everyone to know EXACTLY what you're advocating for. There is no plausible deniability here. What you said is clear. It's dangerous. It only serves to sabotage the Democratic party. Please self-delete.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
184. Perhaps you're unaware that third parties...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:01 PM
Jan 2025

...are not necessarily competitors of other parties.

You might be interested to learn of how the Minnesota Democratic–Farmer–Labor Party (DFL) , or even the Independent Party, works with Democrats, and perhaps you've heard about how closely aligned the libertarian party is to republicans.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
192. LOL! Yes... they necessarily ARE. In our two-party system only ONE party wins the white house.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:35 PM
Jan 2025

Third parties do not win national elections. We are not here to advocate for kneecapping and sabotaging the Democratic party by promoting third parties.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
195. You might not be aware that ...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:39 PM
Jan 2025

...third party membership does not mandate voting only for that party's candidates, and that many third party members do choose to vote for candidates outside of their party that have the best chance of representing shared goals.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
197. And YOU might not be aware that I live in the real world *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:43 PM
Jan 2025

* and I'm not fooled by or enthralled by those types of ridiculous fairy tales and other fantasies. What you're describing does not exist or happen in the real world in numbers large enough to benefit the Democrats. But what does happen, instead, is what we saw in 2016 and 2024.

Please stop advocating for third parties. This site is for Democrats.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
198. Yes, what we saw in 2024 suggests we need to add to our ranks...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:47 PM
Jan 2025

...with voters who are against fascism.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
202. Ridiculous. Advocating for third parties is NOT "adding to our ranks".
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:55 PM
Jan 2025

That's not how elections work. What you're promoting hurts the Democratic party. If voters turn out for the Antifa candidate, then they aren't voting for the Democrat. We know for a fact that the Antifa candidate will not win. Only the Democrat OR the Republican will win. Any vote that does not benefit the Democrat has the effect of helping the Republican. We've seen this repeatedly.

Stop advocating for third parties. This is Democratic Underground... not Antifa Underground.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
205. I encourage you to join me in the real world and support the Democratic Party...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 03:57 PM
Jan 2025
>> Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?
... and grow and strengthen the Democratic party, rather than advocating for Antifa to "organize into a formal political party."

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
209. Actually, the point of your OP is to advocate "for Antifa to organize into a formal political party."
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:03 PM
Jan 2025

You said so, right in the subject line. It's there for the entire world to see. And that only serves the purpose of undermining, kneecapping, sabotaging the Democratic party and siphoning-off votes for Democrats.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
210. No, I ask the question IF Antifa should become a formal party...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:07 PM
Jan 2025

...with an obvious intent of sparking discussion on the topic.

Unfortunately, the thread has been hi-jacked instead with false accusations against me personally.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
213. LOL! Just "asking a question" ... and then defending the question does not leave any room for *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:14 PM
Jan 2025

Last edited Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:50 PM - Edit history (1)

* any sort of plausible deniability. Sorry. I'm not buying it (and I can see by the replies in this thread that I'm not the only one who's NOT buying it.)

You've had ample opportunity to self-delete or even to edit and clarify your OP, but you didn't. Instead, we witnessed doubling-down, tripling-down, quadrupling-down... redefining what a party does, and pretending that third parties "caucus" with Democrats in national elections.

Nobody is attacking you personally. But the OP and most of this thread is an assault on common sense and on our Democratic party.

This is not Antifa Underground. This is Democratic Underground and we are here to strengthen and grow the Democratic party. We do not look for ways to weaken the Democratic party, nor do we advocate or promote third party bullshit that siphons off votes from Democratic candidates.

Please self-delete this thread. It's a cesspool of misinformation.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
216. Spare me. You know perfectly well that "views" does not equate to the same number of individuals.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:38 PM
Jan 2025

I admit, I'm sure it's difficult for many people to not gawk and "rubberneck" at this trainwreck of a thread and marvel at how it has become an overflowing cesspool of misinformation and false statements.

I think that the majority of people who come to Democratic Underground are loyal Democrats who are smart enough to see what is going on in this thread and they will reject any effort to promote third-parties as some sort of imaginary fantasy allies who will "caucus" with Democrats. The fantasies promoted in this thread are just beyond the pale.

We often characterize politics as a "battlefield" and on a real battlefield countries form alliances to defeat a common enemy. HOWEVER, politics and elections do not work that way. It's foolish and naive to assume that different parties can form alliances in the same way that countries form alliances to defeat a common enemy. In the real world of responsible adults, such a notion would be a deadly and costly mistake.

I can see that you're heavily and emotionally invested in this thread... but you really need to let it go. Support Democrats and ONLY Democrats. Sabotage Republicans, not Democrats.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
218. I support Democrats....
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:06 PM
Jan 2025

And I support ALL efforts to fight against the fascism that now threatens our Dmocracy.

I hope you will join me.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
220. Advocating for third parties is NOT supporting Democrats. Period.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:11 PM
Jan 2025

Advocating for third parties only serves to WEAKEN the Democratic party and siphon-off votes.

Advocating for third parties only serves to BENEFIT the GOP and Trump.

Advocating for third parties only serves to SUPPORT fascism.

I hope YOU will "think again" and realize that advocating for third parties is a very dangerous approach.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
222. I disagree...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:14 PM
Jan 2025

Advocating for mutual support and collaboration between anti-fascist and pro-Democracy organizations of any kind is a positive and hopeful approach.

(As I said in this thread many times.)

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
224. No. Third parties siphon votes. "As I've said in this thread many times." 🙄
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:31 PM
Jan 2025

Repeating the lie that third parties benefit Democrats does not make it true.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
226. I disagree with your assumption that collaboration will draw Democrats away from the party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:40 PM
Jan 2025

I personally believe that the more open and accepting of pro-Democratic, anti-fascist people we are, the more they will vote with us.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
229. It's not an assumption. It's FACT that third parties siphon votes from Democrats.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:52 PM
Jan 2025

Advocating for, and supporting third parties is foolish.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
231. I hope you will gain more faith in, and maybe even work toward...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:55 PM
Jan 2025

...spreading the idea that Democratic party is really the only way for Pro-Democratic, Anti-fascist voters to vote, no matter what party they belong to.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
324. I am also amused by the inability or failure of the OP to answer any issues raised by his "question"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:17 PM
Jan 2025

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
325. It is indeed amusing, and predictable. The problem is this: a direct answer and honest response *
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:32 PM
Jan 2025

* would remove the last thin veil of "plausible denial" for supporting and advocating for a third party. By their playing word games and pretending to not understand the question the charade continues. By ignoring facts and reality, their romp in the cesspool of lies and deception continue. Not only does that diminish the Democratic party, but it diminishes the stature and integrity of this website too. For anyone to be allowed or encouraged to promote third party challenges to Democrats on this site (of all sites) is beyond my ability to comprehend. It's the equivalent of shouting "GENOCIDE JOE" and suppressing the vote, it amplifies the lies and smears that are continually being hurled at Democrats. This is Nina Turner level shit-throwing and sabotaging. It's Susan Sarandon level revenge-motivated kneecapping. It's Michael Moore level arrogance to believe that third party challengers do not siphon votes from Democrats. Pretending that third parties do not harm Democrats in close elections is willful ignorance. --- Thanks for listening.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
316. Yet you have refused or are unable to answer basic questions about your OP
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 02:04 PM
Jan 2025

There are 300+ posts on this thread and yet this thread only has 15 likes (this may be a record for a low number of likes for this type of thread). This OP is NOT being taken seriously. I have enjoyed watching you run away and be unable to explain your proposal in the real world. It would be helpful if you would respond to basic questions about this new "formal political party" if you want this to be taken seriously

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
321. How is anyone supposed to take your "question" seriously if you have not looked at the issues raised?
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:11 PM
Jan 2025

I am both a lawyer and a former college and high school debater. I live in the real world and deal with real world issues and have been involved in Democratic Party issues for a very long time in the real world. You really need to answer the questions raised if you want people to be able to respond to your "question" about this proposed new "formal political party".

JohnSJ

(98,505 posts)
80. What bullshit. Antifa is a violent anarchist group, and to even imply that the Democratic Party needs to employ the
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 12:26 PM
Jan 2025

same tactics and effectively become just like the rethugs is complete garbage.

The way you resist is through boycotts, protests, etc.

Stop patronizing Facebook, Twitter(X), Amazon, Tesla, and other supporters of the sociopath. That is the only thing these billionaires will understand when their revenue drops.

Follow the example of the Civil Rights movement in the fifties and sixties, and don't expect immediate results, it could take years.

That is how your fight these f**kers.

Trying to fight them violently is not the answer, and would be futile. You want to win the hearts and minds of the people. That is what the Civil Rights movement did.


Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
86. Antifa is an anti-fascist group....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:47 PM
Jan 2025

...willing to stand strong against fascism in all forms.

Just as the Civil Rights Movement was willing to stand strong against minority oppression.

If it wasn't for the strength shown by anti-fascists, we wouldn't have defeated the nazis the first time around.

Easterncedar

(4,293 posts)
129. That's what they want us to think
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:25 PM
Jan 2025

They demonized the protesters at their fascist rallies, very tellingly calling them antifa. And the media let it happen. There was no antifa organization. Maybe there still is not.

But I am antifascist, so maybe I’m a solo antifa cell.

msfiddlestix

(8,046 posts)
81. No. But our party must define what it means, and underscore opposition to fascism using the acronym in context
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 12:40 PM
Jan 2025

msfiddlestix

(8,046 posts)
97. I feel limited in expressing more in depth...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 04:18 PM
Jan 2025

First, definitely no point in creating an Anti-fa party for all the obvious reasons
But I do feel, our party never attempted to my knowledge or awareness, to define the word in very simple terms. Especially at the time of F47 first term when he used that term in a very negative way, and so did his cult followers in the Senate and so forth.
Charlottesville, is the primary moment when that should have been nipped in the bud, and then exploited in a meaningful way. It was never had been done then. It should have.

Ok that was then, this is now. Dem party leaders in Congress, in all of the state houses etc, Do it now.
Define Fascism, point to specific examples displayed every hour of every breathing moment that bastard is in office spewing his fascists edicts, no touchy feely bullshit.
Aim it to the courts as well, and the media who enable it, while explaining how it is antithetical to any form of democracy. That said, I'm not tuning in to any news broadcasts, I have been avoiding all information coming out of Washington.

So maybe our party leaders are doing this as we are discussing it? It's just about "resistance"
for the sake of opposition without the underlying premise in very clear terms.
Sorry, this is the best I can articulate at the moment.







Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
100. Yes, Yes, and YES!
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 04:52 PM
Jan 2025

That was extremely well expressed and an extremely good and important point of view!

Thank you.

DJ Synikus Makisimus

(1,014 posts)
83. The U.S. system only allows two parties, if we're being honest.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:27 PM
Jan 2025

That duopoly has been in place since the Farmer/Labor Party- Socialist Party - Progressive Party alliance candidate, Robert La Follette,* who had the temerity to attract nearly 17% of the Presidential vote in 1924, shaking capitalism to its core. Because of the legislation and restrictions that followed the '24 election, it is nearly impossible for any "third" party to run a national campaign. See the underfunded shambles that is the Green Party, for example. So you're left with the FREEDOM OF CHOICE between the capitalist oligarch-funded party that demands fascist oligarchy and the capitalist oligarch-funded party that won't do anything about it. Bottom line is In AmeriKKKa, the capitalist oligarchs don't lose. And don't forget, it's the most important election of your lifetime.

=====================================================
*His running mate was Burton K. Wheeler, btw, who figured prominently in Maddow's latest book; though the events she described so venomously did happen later.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
88. Well said. And even with that in mind...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 01:53 PM
Jan 2025

....is there no way for the public to make ourselves be heard that we will use whatever anti-fascist power we have to assure ourselves decent lives?

DJ Synikus Makisimus

(1,014 posts)
98. Sorta depends ...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 04:23 PM
Jan 2025

Within the confines of the political system as presently constituted I doubt it, at least on the state and national level. On the local level, sometimes the money involved isn't as great, there may be a slight chance. Probably not for a variety of reasons. Nationally, watch, for example, who assumes leadership in the Democratic Party in the coming days/weeks. I expect it will be the same sorts of people who do the same sorts of things that landed us here. The party is an oligarch-funded hierarchy, and seems unlikely to do much that's different from what's been done the past 30+ years, since the trashing of the Great Society Progressives, not that they were angels. Their major interest seems to be to preserve the status quo, or at least there (and their donors) part at the top of it. They're not doing especially well at that.

If you're talking more grassroots-y things, it depends on how far folks are willing to go, and now many can be mustered to do so. Let's face it, the system has mostly adapted to protests; unless large numbers of people of color participate or there's a major threat to business and their property, in which case the system ratchets up the repression. See the BLM protest in Washington and the "temporary autonomous zone" protest in Portland in the last year of Trump's first administration for a little taste of how far the system will go to repress. Know also that it will go much further with the GOP in charge, because unlike liberals, they care nothing about public opinion. They manufacture it with their propaganda outlets. I suspect things would have to go lots further with civil disobedience, probably beyond than the Vienam War era variety, and that's a risk that most aren't willing to take. For now at least. We'll see whether the GOP's actions personally and harshly impact enough folks to cause them to take action. To borrow a notion from Che Guevara, "what will constitute the subjective and objective conditions for civil disobedience on a prolonged scale?" Then, how many participants constitute enough will be one of the questions.

Of course the thing that looms ever-present in humanity's not-too-distant future (or lack thereof) is environmental collapse from pollution. Pollution means profits, so I don't expect anything there to change in a society where the only thing that really matters to the people who really matter is profit in the next quarter. We'll have to wait until the collapse to see what happens. I give it 75 years or so, and the last 10 won't be at all pleasant. You know what people eat when the food runs out, right? Fortunately, I'll be dead by then.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
102. You make great points....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:06 PM
Jan 2025

I personally don't hold out a lot of hope for "street" activism (as some have mentioned here, it only gives the fascists a target), and I don't agree with aggressive action that endangers people (of any side) or property, but you do hit a good note when you speak of how protests that effect the bottom line of corporate businesses can make some powerful people sit up and pay attention.

As for environmental collapse, I think your timeframe of 75 years is wrong. As we see every time new studies are released, all of the damage to our complex ecological system is occurring at a far quicker rate than we predicted from previous studies, and the same with the studies prior to them. I believe we have far, far less than 75 year before a tipping point of stress is put on our systems, which will only exacerbate and speed up the further collapse of our only live support system as a whole.

DJ Synikus Makisimus

(1,014 posts)
108. Yeah, you're probably correct.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:21 PM
Jan 2025

I just hope I'm dead by whenever environmental collapse happens. If not, I'll have to take care of it myself.

DJ Synikus Makisimus

(1,014 posts)
115. Oh, also
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:34 PM
Jan 2025

street-level protest levels of the sort that might matter tend to depend on how much one's life is threatened. That's how it worked for the Civil Rights movement, not to mention the protests against the war in Vietnam. Take away Social Security, for example, and I'd expect the Trump dictatorship to be having to address the issue of "Gray terrorists," or whatever they decide to label us. The tools available to the coercive forces of the state (police, National Guard, military, Homeland Security, etc.) might make any resistance futile, but at the point of losing one's life what does it matter? Subjective and objective conditions.

AZJonnie

(771 posts)
92. Considering 'Antifa' at most was like 250 students attending various west coast universities and started in the 10's
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 03:09 PM
Jan 2025

And almost all of them would've graduated since the whole thing started ... good luck with all that. In wingnuts fevered imagination, it's some powerful, giant, shadowy organization ... but wingnuts a bunch of paranoid morons (of course), and it's actually none of those things (okay maybe a little shadowy, esp. since there's almost no substance to their organization). We DO need something like what you're suggesting, but the idea of Antifa as a starting point for that is, no offense, a bit fanciful. They're basically nobody as far as I could ever tell.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
93. Good points, and I agree we couldn't just depend on....
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 03:28 PM
Jan 2025

....the original group to save our Democracy for us.

But yes, I also think a large movement dedicated to rooting out fascism in American politics is very much needed, and I personally belief that should be the focus of any efforts.

The small distractions they keep trying to confuse us with should take second place to the main objective of ridding our Democracy of those who are intent on destroying it.

We can "build back better" once they're gone.

TBF

(35,087 posts)
95. The power of Anonymous was the lack of hierarchy -
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 03:41 PM
Jan 2025

and inability of those in authority to have a target. If we start a party and put someone in charge of it, that is just a target for Trump. He'd love to have an American version of Alexei Navalny to literally kill and hold up as an example.

There will be protests in the streets when things get worse, that will happen. But the democratic party itself is fine in that it exists, it has a history, and it is a blank slate right now. No one is really the leader. Kamala, Clintons, Bidens, Obamas - no one person is seen as the de facto leader. That's just as well right now. Let's focus on getting ready for midterms, documenting what Trump is doing so we can appeal against it, and there has got to be some way to challenge him at the polls as well (I think he and Elon are cheating somehow - more of that needs to be looked at).

Just an opinion, and I value your post in that you sense the seriousness of what has happened the past few days. Some folks are still wearing rose-colored glasses in here, and I applaud you for thinking out of the box in terms of what we can do.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
99. I strongly disagree with the concept advanced in the OP
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 04:30 PM
Jan 2025

Anti-fa is not a political party and the concepts of this group are at best ill-defined.



This move would play into the GOP/Fox News propaganda. If the Democratic Party adopted this plan, we can kiss the next couple of election cycles goodbye

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
104. To further clarify...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:15 PM
Jan 2025

Antifa are NOT socialists nor do they stand for Sharia law, nor are they terrorists.

Antifa as a group holds no other ideology than standing against fascism, hence the name. They are not organized under any other collective stance than fighting fascism. What each of them does or says individually is theirs alone.

The rightwing has done a good job of painting Antifa with all sorts of scary labels because the rightwing recognizes the threat to fascism that a purely anti-fascist group poses, but that's just part of the rightwing playbook, they do that to any group who opposes them (Transpeople are predators, etc.).

If we Dems are allowing their psy-op propaganda to work on us, we're lost.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
107. Again, you are WRONG and your proposal would guarantee further losses
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:19 PM
Jan 2025

Why do you want to elect republicans? I remind you that TFG won in both 2016 and 2024 due to third party voters. Here are some facts for you to ignore



I'm just warning folks: Trump isn't the only threat for Democrats as we learned from 2016--or should have. It was 3rd party voters in MI, PA and WI who threw the election to Trump. Hillary lost those 3 states by only 77k votes--but 800k voted 3rd party.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
114. Many Dems did not turnout to vote...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:32 PM
Jan 2025

...and then there's this, too...

4,776,706 voters were wrongly purged from voter rolls according to US Elections Assistance Commission data.

By August of 2024, for the first time since 1946, self-proclaimed “vigilante” voter-fraud hunters challenged the rights of 317,886 voters. The NAACP of Georgia estimates that by Election Day, the challenges exceeded 200,000 in Georgia alone.

No less than 2,121,000 mail-in ballots were disqualified for minor clerical errors (e.g. postage due).

At least 585,000 ballots cast in-precinct were also disqualified.
1,216,000 “provisional” ballots were rejected, not counted.
3.24 million new registrations were rejected or not entered on the rolls in time to vote.

If the purges, challenges and ballot rejections were random, it wouldn’t matter. It’s anything but random. For example, an audit by the State of Washington found that a Black voter was 400% more likely than a white voter to have their mail-in ballot rejected.

Rejection of Black in-person votes, according to a US Civil Rights Commission study in Florida, ran 14.3% or one in seven ballots cast.

There are also the uncountable effects of the explosive growth of voter intimidation tactics including the bomb threats that closed 31 polling stations in Atlanta on Election Day.

Source: https://www.gregpalast.com/trump-lost-vote-suppression-won/

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
117. The way forward is not to help the GOP win with the formation of bogus third parties who will peal away votes
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 05:50 PM
Jan 2025

I have been volunteering on voter protection issues since 2004 when I went to Florida as part of the Kerry Edwards voter protection team. To fight GOP voter suppression, we need to elect more democrats to Congress and the Senate. The John Lewis Act and other proposed legislation would help. However, establishing a bogus left wind fringe party would only help the GOP. Your proposal would guarantee that the GOP would continue to win seats that they should lose.



If the purpose of this thread is to help Democrats win, then advocating for the formation of another third party will NOT help that goal.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
124. I agree...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:03 PM
Jan 2025

...the way forward is to collect, combine, and empower as many pro-democracy, anti-fascist voters against the current regime as possible, no matter what other party they belong to.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
315. LOL Yet you refused to answer basic questions about the new "formal political party"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 01:59 PM
Jan 2025

You clearly have been dodging basic questions about a new "formal political party" and you are not able to explain how your propoal will work in the real world

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
323. I am sorry that you are unable to deal with the real-world issues raised by your "question"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:14 PM
Jan 2025

I am both a lawyer and a former college and high school debater. I live in the real world and deal with real world issues and have been involved in Democratic Party issues for a very long time in the real world. You really need to answer the questions raised if you want people to be able to respond to your "question" about this proposed new "formal political party".

TBF

(35,087 posts)
127. A 5-year old post from Elon's site is what you use to base
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:12 PM
Jan 2025

your argument? Antifa has nothing to do with sharia law, and socialists have nothing to do with sharia law. Most folks in this country couldn't define socialism if it bit them in the ass, although they sure like their social security.

Ultimately I don't think Antifa should become a political party, but this post that you quoted is an absolute mess.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
139. 66,388 Green Party voters in Pennsylvania brought you Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth.
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 08:10 PM
Jan 2025

The DUI Secretary of Defense was sworn in yesterday due to third party voters



Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
201. You don't consider Independents to be third party?
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:52 PM
Jan 2025

We really must agree on some rules to debate properly.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
233. LOL Do you tire of being wrong?
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:59 PM
Jan 2025

Why will not explain why you want the GOP to win close races by having bogus third parties on the ballot who have no chance of being elected but who can help the GOP win close races

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
235. Then what purpose does it serve to add another third party to the ballot in the real world?
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:05 PM
Jan 2025

The only reason to add anti-fa was a new party is to help the GOP win close races. The US does NOT have a parliamentary system and the addition of a third party using the anti-fa name will only help the GOP

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
238. The purpose I stated in the OP...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:09 PM
Jan 2025

...is to strengthen Anti-fascist voters against the facists.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
241. This concept is simply WRONG in the real world
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:14 PM
Jan 2025

How will helping the GOP win close races help stop trump and the GOP. Again, we lost the PA senate seat due to idiots voting for a third party. Without the PA seat in GOP hands, Hegseth would not have been confirmed. Why do you want to help trump and the GOP win close races?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
242. Building a strong coalition of Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist voters will....
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:16 PM
Jan 2025

...strengthen the Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist vote.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
245. Not in the real world of US politics
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:20 PM
Jan 2025

Tell the PA Democratic senate candidate who lost due to third party voters. I live in the real world and the addition of a new third party using the Anti-Fa name would only help fascists like trump by splitting the vote.

Again, why do you want to help fascists like trump? That is all that your proposal would do in the real world.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
248. I disagree, I believe strengthening the vote against the facists will....
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:32 PM
Jan 2025

...well, strengthen the vote against the fascists.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
284. How will this silly plan work in the real world?
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:23 AM
Jan 2025

How will vote splitting of liberal votes help anyone but trump and his fascists under the American system. America does NOT have a parliamentary system.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
297. Again, explain how your silly proposal will work in the real world
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:26 AM
Jan 2025

You want to form a "formal political party but will not say what that party will do. In the real world, political parties run candidates to advance their agenda. If your "formal political party" is formed, will it nominate and support its own slate of candidates? How will this help your goals other than helping trump and his fellow fascists win races?

I like the real world and have been active in my local county, state and national parties for a long time. Your new "formal political party" is a dumb idea that will only help trump and his fellow fascists to win close races

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
299. I believe I made it clear...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:31 AM
Jan 2025

...that my hope is to strengthen Pro-Democracy and Anti-fascism.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
302. How will your amusing plan do that?
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:41 AM
Jan 2025

The formation of a "formal political party" is not magic. Explain how this "formal political party" will advance your goals. If this party cannot get onto the ballot or run candidates, who is going to pay attention to this "formal political party" in the real world? You are unable or refusing to answer this simple question.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
303. A strong collaboration...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:43 AM
Jan 2025

...between Dems and Pro-Democracy, Antifascist groups of all kinds will consolidate our numbers and therefore strengthen Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist efforts.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
309. LOL It is sad that you are unable and have failed on numerous occasions to explain your silly proposal
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:24 PM
Jan 2025

I live in the real world and have been active in the Democratic Party on the county, state and national level. Your silly explanation makes no sense in the real world. Why would anyone pay any attention to a "formal political party" that you propose? Your new "formal political party" will only siphon off votes from real democrats and help trump and his fascist win race. Have you ever seen in the real world where a fringe nutcase party has worked with a real political party? How will this silly concept work in the real world/

I would suggest that you go to a real party meeting and see how political parties work in the real world. It would be amusing to see you try to explain your proposal. trump and his fellow fascists would love to see someone in the real world try your silly proposal.

Again you need to explain how your proposal will work in the real world.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
311. Again, I have no proposal...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:26 PM
Jan 2025

...I started this OP to discuss the various options for forming a stronger Anti-fascist response to the current nazi regime.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
312. You might want to delete or amend your OP
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:41 PM
Jan 2025

You made a silly proposal that is clearly designed to help trump and his fellow fascists win more close elections by siphoning off votes to a bogus "formal political party" that would never elect a candidate.

I have never seen a real political party "work" with a fringe third party because the two parties are in competition. Have you seen this happen the real world?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
313. I made no proposal, I asked questions...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:48 PM
Jan 2025

Here is my OP in full...

Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party?
...or will the Democratic Party become focused enough to do what must be done?

I realize this is a contentious question, but we now know that we are facing the second rise of the nazi party, and we need to face that reality head-on.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
314. It is really sad that you are unable to explain your proposal or even deal with issues raised by your "question"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 01:56 PM
Jan 2025

You have repeatedly refused to explain how an antifa "formal political party" could be formed or operated in the real world. It is impossible to discuss your OP until and unless you describe how that new "formal political party" would operate in the real world and how such a new "formal political party" would advance your goals. Your refusal to provide any explanation means that you have answered the "question" raised in your OP. Such a new "formal political party" is clearly a dumb idea that would not work in the real world.

In the real world such a new "formal political party" would clearly siphon off votes for democratic candidates and help trump and his fascists advance their goals. If you want the so-called "question" to be discussed, you need to think through the implications of your "question." You have refused to answer rather basic questions about this new "formal political party" and so there is nothing to discuss with respect to your amusing "question".

If you want your amusing "question" to be taken seriously, you need to answer the basic questions raised.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
322. I am sorry that you are unable to deal with the real-world issues raised by your "question"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:13 PM
Jan 2025

I am both a lawyer and a former college and high school debater. I live in the real world and deal with real world issues and have been involved in Democratic Party issues for a very long time in the real world. You really need to answer the questions raised if you want people to be able to respond to your "question" about this proposed new "formal political party".

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
286. Not in the real world
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:26 AM
Jan 2025

You do understand that there is no way a bogus ultra-liberal third party will win any real races. Please explain how your silly plan will work in the real world? You have refused to answer this question.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
291. Correct, the OP is not about votes...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:42 AM
Jan 2025

...it's about strengthening the Pro-Democracy voice against fascism.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
296. Read your OP, you want to form a "formal political party" for anti-fa supporters
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:20 AM
Jan 2025

This is from your sad OP

Is it time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party? [View all]
...or will the Democratic Party become focused enough to do what must be done?

If you form a "formal political party", then you are demanding that this "formal political party" be a real party which means running candidates and trying to get onto the ballot. What do you think that the term "formal political party" means in the real world? You want a "formal political party" that will not run candidates? What will this "formal political party do if it is not running candidates?

Again, why do you want to help trump and the GOP by forming a "formal political party" who will have candidates on the ballot? I live in the real world and your concept/proposal is a very dumb idea that will only help trump and his fellow fascists. Have you been to a meeting of a real political party. In addition to being a 2016 Clinton delegate to the National Convention, I am active in my county and state party. Our main goal is to select and run candidates. We had a meeting of my county party last night where the main issue is to protect local candidates and recruit new candidates for the next election cycle. I would not dream of suggesting your concept at any party meeting but if you really think that your silly proposal has merit, I would urge you to go to a party meeting and advance your amusing plan there. That would be fun to hear about

Again explain how your proposal will work in the real world?

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
300. I never mentioned anything about winning races...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:34 AM
Jan 2025

I only spoke of strengthening Pro-Democracy, Anti-fascist efforts.

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
268. No, I do not consider the two Independent senators members of a third party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 08:57 PM
Jan 2025

"Don't make stuff" up is an excellent rule for debating properly.



Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
270. I wonder if that's a widespread opinion...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 09:00 PM
Jan 2025

...that Independent candidates aren't considered third party candidates.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
200. FALSE. Although they are not affiliated with either party, they do not belong to an official "Independent Party."
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 02:51 PM
Jan 2025

Independents in the U.S. Senate are not part of a single unified "Independent Party". Instead, they are individuals who choose not to align with either of the two major political parties. Bernie Sanders, for example, identifies as a democratic Socialist and caucuses with the Democrats. Angus King generally votes with the Democrats but retains his independent status.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
207. I consider myself a part of the reality-based community where making-shit-up *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 03:59 PM
Jan 2025

* and pretending that it's true has no real or honorable value. You claimed that they belonged to the "Independent Party" and that is demonstrably false.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
214. And thank you for the kicks...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:15 PM
Jan 2025

...the OP has gained a few recs and it's been viewed close to 3000 times now!

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
217. I hate to be the one to tell you, my dear... but that's a very low measurement of "success".
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 04:56 PM
Jan 2025

And 3000 is not indicative of unique views from 3000 individuals. I'm sure you knew that. I think it's charming when someone has clearly lost the argument on the merits and facts, so they wrap it all up by saying "thanks for the kicks" or "thanks for the recs". (So views and "recs" was your objective? That's kinda sad, isn't it?)

Oh well... I guess I just have higher standards.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
225. Clearly, you do not comprehend the difference between multiple "pageviews" from the same person *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:33 PM
Jan 2025

* and unique visitors. Nice try, but "3000+" unique visitors viewing this thread is pure fantasy. As is the notion that supporting third parties is the same as supporting Democrats. NEITHER IS TRUE.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
230. And thank YOU for admitting that "views" and "recs" is the objective...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:53 PM
Jan 2025

... in addition to harming the Democratic party by calling for and supporting third parties.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
232. But I never said, and don't believe in, either of those things.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 05:58 PM
Jan 2025

As is very clear in the OP, my objective is to discuss whether a stronger presence of Anti-fascist voices is needed in our current political spectrum.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
237. No that's false. The OP is promoting the idea of a separate "formal" Antifa party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:07 PM
Jan 2025

Third parties siphon votes from the Democratic party. Stop promoting that it's a viable and reasonable alternative. Seriously. Stop.

Self delete this thread. It's a cesspool of misinformation.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
240. Third parties do not necessarily siphon votes away from other parties.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:12 PM
Jan 2025

Third party members who vote for other party's candidates exist.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
244. You might be interested in exploring more about how offering voters...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:19 PM
Jan 2025

...of any party, strong candidates that satisfy their party's ideologies, results in those voters voting for those candidates.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
246. I live in the real world. I know that third-party candidates siphon votes from Democratic candidates.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:21 PM
Jan 2025

STOP SUPPORTING THIRD PARTIES!

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
249. LOL. If that were true, then there would be zero support of third-parties to siphon votes from Democrats.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:33 PM
Jan 2025

I see you. I know what this is about. I'm not fooled.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
252. No, that's false. Anyone can clearly see that it's promoting the idea of an Antifa party *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:39 PM
Jan 2025

* that will siphon votes from Democratic candidates.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
254. I don't believe collaborating with a new third party that shares our goals...
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:44 PM
Jan 2025

...will result in anything except bringing those third party votes into the hand of our obviously stronger candidate that will achieve those goals.

I believe you might be underestimating the benefits of work WITH other parties to achieve our mutual goals.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
256. That's not what you said. You're advocating FOR a third party. Also *
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:53 PM
Jan 2025

* third parties SIPHON VOTES FROM the Democratic party. They ALWAYS siphon votes.

I believe YOU might be deceiving yourself by ignoring the fact that third parties always act as spoilers.

Major parties and third parties do not "collaborate" together. Promoting that lie does not make it true. Belief in fantasy scenarios is dangerous.

Stop supporting third parties. Support Democrats only.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
258. I don't agree with your assumption....
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:57 PM
Jan 2025

...that third parties must, in every instance, siphon votes from any other party.

I also do not agree that major parties and third parties simply can not collaborate together, if their goals are the same.

Oopsie Daisy

(5,635 posts)
260. Pure fantasy. Dangerous treachery.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:58 PM
Jan 2025

But I appreciate your honesty in admitting and confirming that you do indeed support third parties, and that you do not see them as spoilers and a threat to the Democratic party.

Response to Think. Again. (Reply #208)

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
253. You are using facts in this discussion
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:40 PM
Jan 2025

Facts are being ignore on this thread by the posters who want to help the GOP and fascists win future election by putting a bogus third party on the ballot.

I really do not understand why people who want to help trump and the fascists in the GOP win close elections by adding a bogus third party think that this will hurt the fascists

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
283. You will NOT deal with the facts that your silly proposal will only help trump and his fascists
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:20 AM
Jan 2025

A new third party is a really stupid plan that will only help trump and his fascists. Why do you want to help trump and his fascists

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
239. Are you kidding?
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 06:11 PM
Jan 2025

I asked the OP to explain why you want to help the GOP win close races by having bogus third-party candidates on the ballot who have no chance of winning in the real world but who can help the GOP win close races? Please explain?

Again adding an antifa party to the ballot is a very stupid idea unless your goal is to help the GOP win close races? Why do you want to help the GOP win close races?

Again in the real world, third parties helped TFG win in 2016 and 2024



I'm just warning folks: Trump isn't the only threat for Democrats as we learned from 2016--or should have. It was 3rd party voters in MI, PA and WI who threw the election to Trump. Hillary lost those 3 states by only 77k votes--but 800k voted 3rd party.







Please explain why you want to help the GOP win close races?

TBF

(35,087 posts)
266. No - I questioned your 5-year old post, explained it meant nothing -
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 08:26 PM
Jan 2025

and you went off on something entirely different. We were talking about Antifa, what it was, and you posted a ridiculous post that compared them to Sharia Law. Really, it was insulting. Since that didn't work, I guess you've moved on to other people you've decided are a threat to the democratic party. Antifa was never a threat to the party - they operated autonomously and outside the party.

Anyway, I'm not sure what they point of any of your follow-up posts are, except that you very strongly don't want any other parties. But I think the bickering and desire to call out and destroy everyone on the far left is short-sighted. If we can't get it together in this country and figure out how to work with others, we are all going to be reporting to King Trump, there will be no parties to worry about.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
282. LOL.
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:17 AM
Jan 2025

So you support helping trump and the GOP win close elections due to vote splitting.

TBF

(35,087 posts)
287. lolol - you are still avoiding the original topic -
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:47 AM
Jan 2025

because you have no answer as to why you posted an insane 5-year old tweet. You will say absolutely anything to avoid answering the question. Just throw insults at others and hope they stick.

WarGamer

(16,990 posts)
278. And I absolutely guarantee that most can't define fascism.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:23 PM
Jan 2025

Fascism has become the "catch all word" for everyone from the police officer who gave you a ticket to the waiter at the restaurant who didn't credit your check because the bread was cold.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
125. My suggestion is to join forces with and empower as many pro-Democracy...
Sun Jan 26, 2025, 06:07 PM
Jan 2025

....anti-fascist voters as we can find to work against the nazis currently in charge.

Even if they are members of a different party than ours.

The main objective going forward should be defeating the nazis.

TBF

(35,087 posts)
288. I agree fwiw - although voicing that in these quarters
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:52 AM
Jan 2025

is risky because the centrists are determined they will go anywhere but left. Even if they have to sit on their hands for 4 years and watch Trump blow everything up.

betsuni

(27,832 posts)
264. People who hate Democrats should really just be honest and join third parties (make LOTS third parties
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 07:53 PM
Jan 2025

so they can enjoy themselves infighting about purity and just how much they hate capitalism and hate the U.S. and throw everyone they hate for failing the purity test under the fleet of buses) to ensure Republicans are in power for decades to come. Then they'll be happy. Twenty, thirty years later they'll still blame Democrats and call them neoliberals and neocons and froth at the mouth.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
265. Yeah, but my OP is about whether we (the U.S.) need a stronger position against fascism on our political stage.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 08:12 PM
Jan 2025

lapucelle

(20,121 posts)
281. The OP is about whether or not it's time for Antifa to organize into a formal political party.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:47 PM
Jan 2025

It says it right in the headline.



Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
293. "...or will the Democratic Party become focused enough to do what must be done?"
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:47 AM
Jan 2025

It says that right in the OP.

Ilikepurple

(220 posts)
285. Purity test?
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:24 AM
Jan 2025

I’m sure seeing a lot of this newly promoted conservative term of art around here lately, mainly at those who don’t want the marginalized to get in the way of the neoliberal faction of the party. That’s okay. Big tent and all.

kimbutgar

(24,940 posts)
276. I'm watching this movie tonight called the Underground 1941 and it's about the Nazis and it's scary that it could
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:18 PM
Jan 2025

Happen here. I see the magaloons being the new brown shirts.

It’s streaming for free on Tubi

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
277. Yes, it is happening here, but so many don't want to face it, just like in germany in the 1930's.
Mon Jan 27, 2025, 10:21 PM
Jan 2025

Edit to add:

Or they want to cower.

Or they want it to happen.

samnsara

(18,486 posts)
301. YES!!!
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:40 AM
Jan 2025

....we are already anti-fa whether anyone knows it or not. Ive got Marc Brays book...also I have a weathered copy of the Anarchist Cookbook.

So I vote YES!!!

Turbineguy

(38,983 posts)
304. The GOP would think this is an excellent idea.
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 11:59 AM
Jan 2025

Maybe we should create a new party for crazier trump supporters.

TIGEIHD

Trump is great even if he's dead.

LetMyPeopleVote

(162,234 posts)
326. The GOP will campaign on anti-fa being the bad guys if this silly proposal is adopted
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 04:36 PM
Jan 2025

The GOP and trump will tie the Democratic party and Democratic candidates to anti-fa if this silly proposal is adopted or pursued in the real world.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
331. Are we really setting our strategies around whether the rightwing will call us names?
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 09:53 PM
Jan 2025

Because I promise you, they will.

58Sunliner

(5,686 posts)
307. We are antifa. Not to be confused with the anarchists.
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:11 PM
Jan 2025

What we need to do is hold any and all dem leadership accountable to their stated promises and actions that imperil Americans and our party.

Think. Again.

(22,330 posts)
308. I absolutely agree...
Tue Jan 28, 2025, 12:14 PM
Jan 2025

The obvious point of the OP is that we need a strong Anti-fascist response to the current nazi regime, and any and all efforts to that end should be made.

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