MAGAReport for 4/12/2024
Today: A look at the state of QAnon and worries about what's next. On the forums: anti-trans and anti-Biden discussions, no plans for violence.
The bottom line: there are no plans for violence or organized protest being discussed on pro-Trump forums right now.
I noticed an interesting post on a QAnon forum today that galvanized some broader thoughts I’ve been having about the movement. The post was lamenting how the activity on their forum had dropped so much from where it was in 2020, and included the line “I'm prepared to see another election stolen - but this time I will be at peace…” This is from someone who still really believes in the conspiracy theory, and even if Trump loses in November, they will be “at peace” because they believe things are slowly happening behind the scenes.
I think this reflects a trend of resignation among some Trump supporters. They have not accepted that he lost or will lose again, but they feel like the “corruption” is so powerful that it may be inevitable that the next election will go like 2020 and Trump won’t return to power. There is a smell of desperation in the forums, and even the people cheering about how great it will be when Trump is re-elected seem to be looking around for someone to validate them.
On the surface, this could be a good thing if we are worried about violence around the next election. A demoralized, resigned base is not going to storm the Capitol or do whatever the 2024 version of that might be. On the other hand, these are people who believed they were engaged in a battle between good and evil in 2020. They are frustrated and feel adrift. The conditions are ripe for something new show up that relieves that frustration, gives these people purpose, and channels all that anger into action. So far, I don’t see any new conspiracy theories or issues primed to do that, but it’s a long time between now and November. For me, this is the biggest worry. What is the thing that will come along and replace QAnon as a galvanizing force for the simmering rage in these pro-Trump communities? If someone gets that right, it could be very dangerous. For now, we just keep waiting.
From the .win Forums
This is an automated summary of discussions on pro-Trump forums
The main topics being discussed include criticism of government policies and actions, concerns about immigration and border control, skepticism towards mainstream media and political figures, and discussions about conspiracy theories and corruption. There is also a focus on the power of mass media and its manipulation of public opinion, as well as the exploitation of intellectual insecurity in news reporting.
There are several threats, including discrimination and prejudice towards transgender individuals, criticism and attacks against political figures such as Joe Biden and Democrats, and accusations of corruption and manipulation by the government and media. These threats are aimed at specific individuals and groups and are meant to discredit and harm them.
There are no specific plans for political or violent action mentioned. There is a strong sense of frustration and anger towards the current state of the country and government, and a desire for change and resistance against perceived injustices. The focus seems to be on raising awareness rather than taking direct action.
From Telegram
This is an automated summary of discussions on pro-Trump Telegram channels
1. Main topics being discussed: Biden's presidency and actions, support for Trump, concerns about illegal immigration, criticism of hypocrisy and corruption in politics, and opposition to COVID-19 vaccines.
2. Threats against individuals or groups: There are multiple instances of threats against political opponents, including calls for violence and accusations of treason and corruption. There are also anti-LGBTQ+ sentiments and fear of satanism being expressed.
3. Plans for political or violent action: Some members of the community are discussing potential plans for Trump's re-election in 2024. There are no plans for violent action.