The actions of former President Donald Trump, including decisions to intervene in Venezuela and Iran, were not deviations from a pattern but rather consistent with the behavior of fascist leaders, according to University of Toronto philosophy professor Jason Stanley. Stanley, author of the 2018 book How Fascism Works, argues that understanding Trump’s ideology as fascist is critical to interpreting his foreign policy decisions and domestic actions. This analysis suggests a deliberate strategy of imperialistic expansion, rather than the anti-war stance some analysts previously attributed to him.
Stanley’s assessment, shared during an appearance on the “Right Now With Perry Bacon” podcast, posits that fascist regimes are inherently expansionist. He contends that Trump’s actions, such as attempts to overthrow governments in Venezuela and Iran, align with this historical tendency. The professor further links this pattern to domestic policies, including shifts in U.S. Immigration policy to prioritize white immigrants and the aggressive deployment of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in liberal cities. This connection, Stanley argues, demonstrates a cohesive ideological framework driving Trump’s agenda.
Defining Fascism and its Implications
Stanley differentiates fascism from simply being autocratic, authoritarian, or far-right. He emphasizes that fascism is a specific political ideology characterized by a desire for national restoration, a rejection of modern values, and a hierarchical worldview. This ideology, he asserts, necessitates external aggression as a means of solidifying power and reinforcing national identity. The professor’s analysis challenges conventional interpretations of Trump’s foreign policy, which often focused on transactionalism or isolationism. Instead, Stanley frames these actions as manifestations of a deeper, ideologically driven impulse toward imperial dominance.
The idea that Trump’s actions were driven by fascist ideology isn’t new. A 2026 article in The New Republic highlighted Stanley’s arguments, noting the consistency between Trump’s rhetoric and historical patterns of fascist leadership. The article also points to Stanley’s decision to relocate from Yale University to the University of Toronto in Canada, a move motivated by a desire to more effectively combat Trump and fascism whereas avoiding the financial support of policies he opposes. Stanley stated he felt he could defend American democracy more effectively from outside the United States and was wary of paying taxes that funded Trump’s policies.
The Demand for Broad Coalition Building
Stanley stresses that an effective response to fascism requires a broad coalition of individuals crossing ideological lines. He argues that focusing on policy differences can be counterproductive, hindering the formation of a united front against what he views as a fundamental threat to democratic values. He cited recent protests in Minnesota as an example of successful anti-fascist organizing, demonstrating the power of collective action.
The “Right Now With Perry Bacon” podcast, hosted by New Republic staff writer Perry Bacon Jr., provides a platform for in-depth discussions on national politics and the challenges posed by the Trump administration. The program aims to go beyond daily headlines, offering context and analysis of current events. You can watch episodes of “Right Now With Perry Bacon” on YouTube or through Substack.
Stanley’s insights, as shared in a recent interview with Bacon, also appeared on Bette Dangerous’ Substack, where he offered words of motivation inspired by the organizing efforts in Minneapolis.
Looking Ahead
The debate surrounding the characterization of Trump’s ideology and its impact on U.S. Foreign policy is likely to continue. Stanley’s analysis provides a framework for understanding Trump’s actions through the lens of fascism, prompting a reevaluation of conventional political narratives. As the political landscape evolves, the implications of this perspective will be crucial to consider as the nation navigates future challenges to its democratic institutions.
What are your thoughts on the connection between Trump’s policies and the characteristics of fascism? Share your perspective in the comments below, and please share this article with others to continue the conversation.
