World
October 27, 2024 10:30
michigan - Militias are fueling fears of a civil war following the American elections, with a particular focus on Michigan as a hotspot for paramilitary organizations.
Fears of a potential civil war loom over the upcoming American presidential elections, with warnings of escalating political violence. Militias are seen as potentially playing a dangerous role in this scenario. Our correspondent traveled to Michigan, a swing state known as a stronghold for paramilitary groups, to gauge the atmosphere.
Burgemeester Alan Jager of Holton, a rural town in Michigan, bluntly stated, "I think a civil war is imminent." The 65-year-old Republican, who made national headlines last year by announcing the formation of his own militia, confessed that it was actually a ploy to circumvent stricter federal gun regulations. However, the current tension surrounding the elections seems real.
Jager, a descendant of Dutch immigrants, expressed unease over the current climate around the presidential elections. He even admitted to barely speaking to his own mother, a Democrat, reflecting the deep divide between the conservative countryside and progressive cities. "Many people there hate us," said Jager, hinting at underlying animosity. He acknowledged the presence of individuals within real militias eager to spark a war at a moment's notice.
Washington's concern revolves around the potential for right-wing violence instigated by paramilitary groups during the electoral process. Michigan, with an estimated two to three dozen militias, has become a breeding ground for such organizations. These predominantly white, right-leaning groups harbor nostalgia for the past.
Previous incidents in Michigan, such as the thwarted plot by the Wolverine Watchmen to kidnap Governor Gretchen Whitmer in 2020, underscore the willingness of some militias to resort to political violence. The storming of the Capitol in 2021 by angry Trump supporters, with the involvement of groups like the Proud Boys, further underlines this trend.
Despite claims of being defensive in nature, militias like the Southwest Michigan Volunteer Militia, exemplified by members Michael and Wendy Lackomar, emphasize preparedness for various contingencies. They train with weapons, viewing themselves as a civilian defense force against potential threats ranging from terrorism to government overreach.
However, even these militia members paint a grim picture of the future. Michael pessimistically stated, "No matter the election outcome, neither side will be satisfied. I don't see a way for reconciliation unless a dramatic event like 9/11 occurs."
Recent events, like the failed assassination attempt on Trump in July, have reinvigorated militias. The founder of the 3 Percenters, a paramilitary group, rallied supporters on social media, framing the incident as an attack on their movement and calling for readiness for war.
The resurgence of groups like the Proud Boys, reportedly spotted at Trump's campaign events, fuels concerns of escalating violence. While experts like Amy Cooter caution against another Capitol siege, the presence of militias at polling stations raises fears of intimidation and potential standoffs during the electoral process.
Despite their history of pressuring officials with armed displays, militias like the Southwest Michigan group claim they won't interfere with polling stations unless electoral observers face obstacles. They view themselves as a safeguard against government intrusion.
However, they suspect manipulation in the electoral process, echoing sentiments of orchestrated division between political factions. While remaining reactive, they vow to act if provocations emerge.