
Refuse Fascism
By Refuse Fascism
The Refuse Fascism podcast is an independent and all-volunteer show that produces weekly episodes that expose, analyze, and oppose the very real danger and threat of fascism coming to power in the United States.
Hosted by Sam Goldman, produced by volunteers with Refuse Fascism.
Hosted by Sam Goldman, produced by volunteers with Refuse Fascism.

Refuse FascismJul 06, 2020
00:00
48:31

All Out For April 5: Silence = Collaboration
Listen to reports and excerpts from the protests demanding the release of Mahmoud Khalil and against the the broader fascist repression of the student movement to free Palestine. Sam and Mark discuss the moment we're in and the critical need to mobilize intensely for the upcoming protest on April 5 in DC (with additional gatherings in cities around the country). Then, Sam talks with David Smith, the Guardian's Washington DC bureau chief. Read The Trump administration is descending into authoritarianism: From media to culture and the arts to the refusal to abide by court orders, we’re nearing ‘Defcon 1 for our democracy’, experts say and his latest: ‘It reminds you of a fascist state’: Smithsonian Institution braces for Trump rewrite of US history and follow his work at theguardian.com.Act:Join the Refuse Fascism Contingent in D.C. on Saturday April 5 at the HANDS OFF ProtestRead, Sign, Spread A Call to Conscience...A Call to ActVisit RefuseFascism.org for all links mentioned in this episode.We are on TikTok officially now! Follow @refusefashism (that spelling is intentional to get around TikTok censors). Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or find Refuse Fascism on all the socials, usually spelled correctly. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support: patreon.com/refusefascismMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 31, 202501:33:24

How Young Men are Recruited into Fascism - And How to Stop It With Craig Johnson
Sam discusses how the Trump regime is taking the attacks on the rule of a law to a whole new level and the alarming leaps towards fascist consolidation from this past week, emphasizing the urgent need for mass resistance to defeat Trump/MAGA fascism. Then she interviews Craig Johnson, author of How to Talk to Your Son About Fascism and host of the 15 Minutes of Fascism Podcast. Follow Craig @cajohnson-craig.bsky.social.Mentioned in this episode:Statement from Elias Law Group Chair Marc EliasLegal community shaken by a powerful law firm's decision to give in to Trump's demandsWith Orders, Investigations and Innuendo, Trump and G.O.P. Aim to Cripple the Left‘Speak up, speak out, be bold’: Fmr. Gov. Inslee urges action from civil society leaders“We Live in a Fascist Dictatorship”: Elie Mystal on Trump’s Lawlessness, Attacks on the JudiciaryTake Action:Thursday March 27 Protests Demanding FREE Mahmoud Khalil NOW! (LA, NYC, DC and more) Read, sign, spread: A Call to Conscience...A Call to ActionJoin Comedian Cliff Cash at the Mass Media March Sunday March 30 (multiple cities)Volunteer with Refuse FascismSave the date: join Refuse Fascism contingent at HANDS OFF! Protest Saturday April 5th in Washington D.C. Merch: https://refusefascism.bigcartel.com/productsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support: patreon.com/refusefascismMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 23, 202555:23

Mahmoud Khalil Must Be Freed - Trump Must Go
Sam and Coco talk about the ominous significance of the kidnapping, ICE detention and plans for deportation of Columbia graduate and activist Mahmoud Khalil (not to mention, green card holder married to a US citizen) and the need to quickly and dramatically step up resistance to the whole Trump MAGA fascist program."NOW IS THE TIME WHEN WE MUST RISE UP AND ACT TO STOP THE CONSOLIDATION OF TRUMP MAGA FASCISM. For the lives of people here and around the world we must refuse unlawful and inhumane orders… we must fill the streets and town squares in rising numbers — not stopping until we become millions — not relenting until this regime is no longer able to implement its program."- from A Call to Conscience... A Call to Act from Refuse FascismMentioned in this episode:Mahmoud Khalil Must Be FREED NOW!"This statement needs to be spread to every corner of society"'Baby jails’ and first steps behind bars: Trump’s immigration agenda embraces family detention againWe Are Asking the Wrong Questions About Mahmoud Khalil’s ArrestJewish Voice for Peace takes over Trump Tower protesting for Mahmoud KhalilJe suis Khalil (FT)Read, sign, share: https://refusefascism.org/act/Merch: https://refusefascism.bigcartel.com/productsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support: patreon.com/refusefascismMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 16, 202547:03

Decorum Vs. Determined Resistance with A.R. Moxon
Sam recaps this past week including Trump's fascist address to Congress, the regime's progress towards their goals and the protests demanding Trump, Musk and the fascist regime's removal around the country. Then, she talks to author and essayist A.R. Moxon (author of Very Fine People and The Revisionaries). Follow his work at www.armoxon.com and subscribe to his newsletter at the-reframe.com.Mentioned in this episode:The Trump Administration’s Environmental Pile-OnDHS Detains Palestinian Student from Columbia Encampment, Advocates SayNew Call to Conscience... Call to Act: NO! In The Name of Humanity, We Refuse to Accept a Fascist America; We Demand: The Trump Fascist Regime Must Go!The RNL Show (including clips from Trump's address to Congress)Merch:Sticker PackRainbow Sticker PackBeanieRefuse Fascism T-shirtIn the Name of Humanity T-ShirtSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:·patreon.com/refusefascism·paypal.me/refusefascism·donate.refusefascism.orgMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 09, 202552:47

Stop the War on Women and LGBTQ People
Mark recaps the latest from the fascist shitstorm... then we share highlights from the live forum this week featuring Sunsara Taylor, Debra Sweet and your questions leading into this week of protests. Watch Sunsara Taylor on The RNL - Revolution Nothing Less - Show every week on Youtube.Mentioned in the episode: Protest Trump Tuesday March 4 outside Congress in DC Resources for March 4 (fliers, posters, chants, etc.) Saturday March 8 International Women’s Day 2025 - nationwide Resources for March 8 (fliers, posters, chants, etc.)Merch:Sticker packsBeaniesPinsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:·patreon.com/refusefascism·paypal.me/refusefascism·donate.refusefascism.orgMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 02, 202501:01:55

Purges in the Military and Growing Resistance in the Streets
In this episode Sam shares clips from voices of conscience who've spoken up this past week before joining Mark to dissect and analyze the state of the fascist ascent one month in. Topics include CPAC, growing protests, and major moves of the regime this week: their military purge, the terror they're unleashing against immigrants, their expanding cuts of federal workers and extreme threats against judges, politicians, professors, and even whole cities. Sam urges listeners to come to DC on Tuesday March 4 to protest when Trump speaks to Congress & to volunteer to help make the protest as powerful as possible. Mentioned in the episode: Refusing Trump’s Orders: Military Resistance to Mass Deportation How Trump’s Leveraging “Unitary Executive” Theory to Harness Supreme Power Protest Trump Tuesday March 4 outside Congress Trump’s Executive Orders Build Toward Dictatorial “Unitary Executive” Power Migrants, Deported to Panama Under Trump Plan, Detained in Remote Jungle Camp Trump and Musk Delight in the Sounds of Human Suffering With Sick “ASMR” Immigrant VideoMerch:Sticker packsBeaniesPinsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:·patreon.com/refusefascism·paypal.me/refusefascism·donate.refusefascism.orgMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Feb 24, 202501:10:41

Unprecedented: Sasha Abramsky & Thomas Zimmer on the Crisis We Face
Sam shares an excerpt from Refuse Fascism's Virtual Forum "Only The People Can Defeat Fascism" featuring commentary from Paul Street and Sunsara Taylor. You can view the entire forum here. She then interviews Sasha Abramsky, author of Chaos Comes Calling and Western Correspondent for The Nation. In this conversation, Sasha discusses the rapid ascent of fascism, emphasizing the dehumanization of vulnerable populations, the role of propaganda, and the transformation of government under the Trump Regime. He highlights the immediate consequences of slashing social programs, the global implications of U.S. policies, and the impact of paramilitary forces on the rule of law. Follow Sasha on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/sashaabramsky.bsky.social.Then Sam interviews historian Thomas Zimmer, co-host of the "Is this Democracy" podcast, to discuss the qualitative transformation of the US government over the course of the last month, through constitutional crisis to the brink of categorically ending constitutional order. The conversation examines the deadly synergy between varied factions and key figures within the fascist movement, highlighting Russel Vought and Elon Musk. Read more from him by subscribing to his substack: http://thomaszimmer.substack.com/. Follow Thomas on Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/thomaszimmer.bsky.social.Monday, FEBRUARY 17 “Presidents Day…” Take To the Streets (click to find locations)Volunteer for Refuse Fascism >Resources: The Dehumanization Is the Point by Sasha Abramsky Trump’s January 6 Pardons Were a Green Light to Far Right Paramilitaries by Sasha Abramsky Meet the Ideologue of the “Post-Constitutional” Right by Thomas Zimmer MAGA Feeding Frenzy Has Caused a Constitutional Crisis by Thomas ZimmerMerch:Sticker packsBeaniesPinsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:·patreon.com/refusefascism·paypal.me/refusefascism·donate.refusefascism.orgMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Feb 16, 202501:21:39

Watering The Seeds of Resistance
Sam shares the call from Refuse Fascism to take the streets on Presidents Day (Monday, February 17) and shares some of the developments that marked week 3 of Trump 2.0.She interviews Daniel Hunter, author ofWhat If Trump Wins? and founder of Choose Democracy. They discuss resistance to stop Trump and how we overcome fear and uncertainty. Find out more about minuteof.us here. Then she shares highlights from conversations with Kay, Kim, and Misty, organizers withNo Voice Unheard who played a pivotal role in the nationwide 50501 protests that mobilized thousands in protest of Trump and Project 20205.Find/host a protest on Monday Feb 17 ("President's Day") here:https://refusefascism.org/2025/02/08/monday-february-17-presidents-day-take-to-the-streets/Only the People Can Defeat Trump/MAGA FascismFind Out How; Register for ZoomTuesday, Feb 11 at 8PM ET Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_95M5RZOMTq-rjhWxSobJLAMerch:Sticker packsBeaniesPinsSend your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok:@samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:·patreon.com/refusefascism·paypal.me/refusefascism·donate.refusefascism.orgMusic for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Feb 09, 202501:04:07

The First Two Weeks: Fascism is a Package Deal
Sam recaps and analyzes the onslaught of fascist orders and actions as of this morning, February 2, 2025. Then we share snippets from the Patron-only call earlier this week discussing the fascists' agenda and progress towards implementing it including their primary targets (trans people and immigrants) plus their plans for radically changing the US constitution (which isn't already repressive enough for them); plus ways that people can act in concert and individually to resist fascism meaningfully right now.
Find protests in every state happening February 5 here.
Learn more about the "50501" protest movement here.
Resources:
Episode 218: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers
Refuse Fascism merch including stickers and beanies
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts and Hoodies
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (black ink on colored options)
Signs & Banners
Refuse Fascism Mission Statement
Defend & Recruit Playbook
Immigration Know Your Rights Resources
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Feb 02, 202543:58

Week One of Trump Regime 2.0 with Chrissy Stroop
One week in, Sam talks with Chrissy Stroop, Senior Correspondent for Religion Dispatches, and co-founder of The Fly Trap. Subscribe to Chrissy's Substack: https://www.bugbeardispatch.com/.
Wednesday, Jan. 29 at 8PM ET / 5PM PT, join us for a Patron-only Zoom discussion with historian Paul Street & host of the pod Sam Goldman, to discuss Trump's first 10 days and ways we can refuse fascism together. See link to register at our Patreon page: https://www.patreon.com/refusefascism.
The Inauguration song by Jesse Welles on YouTube. Follow Jesse at wellesmusic.com.
Resources:
Refuse Fascism merch including stickers and beanies
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts and Hoodies
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (black ink on colored options)
Signs & Banners
Refuse Fascism Mission Statement
Defend & Recruit Playbook
Immigration Know Your Rights Resources
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jan 27, 202501:12:53

Sheriffs As Trump’s Shock Troops w/ Jessica Pishko
Sam comments on the eve of Trump's inauguration and shares highlights from our virtual forum "Offense and Defense: How to Defeat Trump/MAGA Fascism & Defend Those Under Attack." Catch the full program here.
Then, Sam interviews Jessica Pishko, journalist, lawyer, and author of The Highest Law in the Land: How the Unchecked Power of Sheriffs Threatens Democracy. You can follow Jessica on X/Bluesky @JessPish and subscribe to her Substack.
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts and Hoodies
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (black ink on colored options)
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jan 19, 202559:60

The Most Dangerous Anti-Immigrant Bill Yet + An Announcement
Sam recaps the far-reaching and ominous effects of the "Laken Riley" (anti-immigrant) Act on the eve of Trump's return to power.
Sign up for the virtual forum on January 15 5pm PT/7pm CT/8pm ET: https://bit.ly/4014smc
Offense and Defense: How To Defeat Trump/MAGA Fascism & Defend Those Under Attack
On January 20, Trump will re-take the reins of power. We have to confront Trump/MAGA fascism 2.0—now backed by all three branches of government, a united and far-reaching fascist movement, with the Republican Party purged of any dissent, and a cabinet ready to go full of woman-haters, immigrant-bashers, war criminals, white supremacists, science deniers, climate destroyers, racists and shameless liars with no respect for the rule of law.
With Trump’s inauguration posing an existential threat to humanity and the planet itself, this forum aims to bring people together to inspire and bolster collective action. Join us to hear prescient insights from people who have been leading serious efforts to expose and oppose Trump/MAGA fascism, illuminating the threats we face and the paths forward to resist them effectively.
Featuring:
Coco Das, Member of the Refuse Fascism Editorial Board
Faisal Al-Jubari, Chief External Affairs Officer for RAICES (Refugee and Immigrant Center for Education and Legal Services)
Sunsara Taylor, co-host of The RNL-Revolution Nothing Less-Show
Hosted by: Sam Goldman, Host of the Refuse Fascism Podcast
Could the MAGA nightmare really all come to pass?
Is the best thing we can do be begging Democratic Party leaders or waiting for elections?
What would serious opposition look like and where and how do we get it started now?
Will finding common ground with fascists rein them in or keep us safe?
Can we actually wrench out a different future?
IN THE NAME OF HUMANITY, WE REFUSE TO ACCEPT A FASCIST AMERICA!
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jan 12, 202510:22

Resistance on Hold: The Crisis of Inaction in Perilous Times
Sam comments on the fourth anniversary of the January 6th coup attempt. Then, she chats with co-producer of the pod, Mark Tinkleman, exploring questions we've received. In this conversation, Sam and Mark discuss the current political landscape in the U.S., focusing on the lack of visible resistance against the rising fascism represented by Trump/Republi-fascist return to power. They draw parallels with South Korea's history of mass mobilization against oppressive regimes, emphasizing the need for sustained and organized resistance. They highlight the urgency of action in the face of a rapidly deteriorating political situation and the necessity of mass action to disrupt the status quo. The discussion also addresses the phenomenon of people tuning out from political issues, the urgency of challenging the non-fascist majority, and the dangers of basing movements solely on popular opinion.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Stupid Stuff to Stop Saying in 2025
The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
No Election Can Legitimize Fascism! We REFUSE to Accept a MAGA Fascist USA
2024: Year in Review
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts and Hoodies
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (black ink on colored options)
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jan 05, 202501:01:57

2024: Year in Review
We find our power together, not by finding a way to get by or accommodate to the new horrific normal, but together paving a path for mass nonviolent noncooperation, mass nonviolent disobedience. Prepare for the fight ahead in 2025 with some guests from this past year including:
Zoltán Grossman
Lee McIntyre
Sasha Abramsky
Jefferson Cowie
Ece Temelkuran
Aziz Rana
Tom Schaller
Alberto Toscano
Graie Hagans
Amanda Tyler
Annika Brockschmidt
Robert P. Jones
Clarence Lusane
Matt Shuham
Paul Street
Rick Perlstein
Connect with us on social media @RefuseFascism on just about all platforms.
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts and Hoodies
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirts and Hoodies (black ink on colored options)
Send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman and find her on TikTok: @samgoldmanrf. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Dec 30, 202401:43:20

How Trump’s Leveraging “Unitary Executive” Theory to Harness Supreme Power
Sam discusses "The Great Capitulation" and the need for us to come together now to defeat Trump/MAGA fascism through collective action.
Then she interviews veteran legal scholar, activist and political analyst, Marjorie Cohn, to discuss the implications of the "unitary executive" theory with Trump returning to power next month. They explore how this theory has evolved over time, its impact on the system of checks and balances, and the alarming agenda outlined in Project 2025, which aims to consolidate executive power. Cohn warns of the threats to civil liberties and democratic norms, emphasizing the need for organized resistance against fascism.
Read Marjorie's regular Truthout column Human Rights and Wrongs and learn more and connect at marjoriecohn.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
The Great Capitulation by Michelle Goldberg
Trump Is Using “Unitary Executive” Theory in His Bid to Amass Supreme Power by Marjorie Cohn
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirt
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (black ink on colored options)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism or Venmo: @Refuse-Fascism or Paypal.me/RefuseFascism.
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Dec 22, 202439:44

Gender Liberation, Radical Defiance & The Power of Street Art
Sam recaps some of the fascist developments from this past week and interviews author and activist, Raquel Willis, co-founder of The Gender Liberation Movement (@genderlib). Raquel discusses the current anti-trans landscape, focusing on the implications of the U.S. v. Skrmetti case and the broader cultural backlash against trans rights. Willis highlights the need for radical defiance and collective action to combat the ongoing threats to trans rights and healthcare access. You can follow Raquel on IG @raquel_willis.
Then Sam speaks with Philadelphia-based street artist YOMI to discuss art, fascism, and resistance. Follow Yomi's work @yomitgmb.
Mentioned in this episode:
Resist Trump? On Immigration, Top Democrats See Room for Compromise. (NY Times)
Texas is Coming for New York Abortion Providers by Jessica Valenti
They're Killing Us by Jessica Valenti
Trump Picks Chloe Cole's Anti-Trans Lawyer Harmeet Dhillon To Lead DOJ Civil Rights Post by Erin Reed
Dec 18 in Philadelphia: March to Defend Immigrant Lives, Dec 18 in Philadelphia
Other actions on Dec 18 International Migrants Day
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirt
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (black ink on colored options)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism or Venmo: @RefuseFascism or Cashapp: $RefuseFascism or Paypal.me/RefuseFascism.
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Dec 15, 202401:27:44

Refusing Trump’s Orders: Military Resistance to Mass Deportation
Central to Trump's fascist agenda is his pledge to carry out the largest mass deportation effort in the nation's history. Trump has affirmed that efforts will involve a national emergency declaration and the military. To discuss this topic Sam interviews Brittany Ramos DeBarros, an army veteran and Organizer Director of About Face: Veterans Against the War (on Instagram @vetsaboutface).
Recommended reading: Trump’s Mass Deportation Plan Can’t Happen If US Military Members Resist It by Rory Fanning
Resources/mentioned in this episode:
The Supreme Court’s Hearing on Trans Rights Was Bigotry Masquerading as Law by Elie Mystal
Trans Rights Activists Hold Sit-In at Capitol to Protest Johnson’s Bathroom Ban by Chris Walker
Idaho Will Enforce Abortion Travel Ban by Jessica Valenti
Meet Kash Patel, Donald Trump’s New Roy Cohn (Amicus podcast)
Refuse Fascism Gear:
Refuse Fascism T-Shirt
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (white ink on colored options)
In the Name of Humanity We REFUSE to Accept a FASCIST America T-Shirt (black ink on colored options)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism or Venmo: @RefuseFascism or Cashapp: $RefuseFascism or Paypal.me/RefuseFascism.
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Dec 08, 202459:12

"Day One" Dictator & Trump's Monstrous Mass Deportation Plans
Sam gives an update on Trump's new appointments to his Revengers cabinet and their implications, shouts out Evan Greer's disruption of anti-trans bigot Rep. Nancy Mace, and underscores the qualitative changes in governance that fascism represents and calls for collective action against MAGA fascism NOW not waiting until atrocities are underway. Sam also discusses Trump's plans for mass deportations of at least 11 million people, drawing parallels to historical atrocities and emphasizing the urgent need for mass defense, disruption and disobedience to support our immigrant siblings and stop the fascists from implementing their nightmare program.
This week we re-run two interviews featuring contributors to the June issue of The New Republic titled "What American Fascism Would Look Like." Emmanuel Guerisoli discusses his essay The "Day One" Dictatorship (co-authored by Federico Finchelstein). Emmanuel is a postdoctoral fellow at the Zolberg Institute on Migration and Mobility at the New School. He can be followed at @emmaGuerisoli. Then, Francisco Goldman discusses his essay From Texas to Massachusetts: On the border in a fascist America. Francisco is a novelist and journalist. His most recent novel is Monkey Boy, a Pulitzer Prize finalist. He can be followed on ex-Twitter at @PacoGoldman or on Instagram @franciscogoldman.
Mentioned in this episode:
“Put Them in Trauma”: Inside a Key MAGA Leader’s Plans for a New Trump Agenda by Molly Redden and Andy Kroll, ProPublica, and Nick Surgey, Documented
Ep 213: Fascist Riots in the UK, Fascist Plots in the US
Border Militias Prepare to Assist With Donald Trump’s Mass Deportation Plans by Tess Owen
American Families United Act by Andrew Moriarity
Trump 2.0 Poses an Even Bigger Threat to Migrants. Here’s How We Fight Back. by Silky Shah
Trump’s border czar pick supports using Texas ranch for mass deportations by Alejandro Serrano
How millions of US children would be hurt by Trump’s mass deportation plan: ‘Deep harm is intentional’ by Robin Buller
Trump’s Cabinet: Forging a Fascist Machine (revcom.us)
Resources to spread the message, "In The Name of Humanity, We Refuse To Accept a Fascist America":
Sticker Pack
Printable Poster in color
Printable Poster in black and white
Refuse Fascism Shop
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts:
Original
New (with slogan above)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Nov 24, 202401:14:16

Trump’s Opening Salvo, Dems Roll Out The Welcome Mat + Christians Against Christian Nationalism
Sam discusses what to make of Biden's warm welcome of Trump back to the White House and pledge to "accommodate him," legislation that gives you a preview of how Trump & Co see their strategy kicking off, Trump's cabinet of horrors, and more recent developments.
Then, Amanda Tyler (@AmandaTylerBJC) is the executive director of the Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty. Amanda is the lead organizer of Christians Against Christian Nationalism and she is the author of How to End Christian Nationalism.
Mentioned in the episode:
Why Democrats are aiding and facilitating fascism, what this shows about this system, and what decent people need to be doing by Bob Avakian
House GOP Moves to Ram Through Bill That Gives Trump Unilateral Power to Kill Nonprofits by Noah Hurowitz
What are recess appointments and how could Trump use them to fill his Cabinet? by Stephen Groves
Meet Pete Hegseth, the Man Who Will Lead the Entire US Military — A Man Deemed an ‘Extremist’ by the US Military by Jeff Sharlet
How to Hear a Fascist by Rick Perlstein
What White Christians Have Wrought by Robert P. Jones
Resources to spread the message, "In The Name of Humanity, We Refuse To Accept a Fascist America":
Sticker Pack
Printable Poster in color
Printable Poster in black and white
Refuse Fascism Shop
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts:
Original
New (with slogan above)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Nov 17, 202449:14

No Election Can Legitimize Fascism! We REFUSE to Accept a MAGA Fascist USA
Post-election 2024, we're not telling you how to feel, we're just glad you're feeling something. Hang onto your humanity with us and pledge to refuse to accept a fascist America urgently and visibly in the coming weeks.
Paul Street and Andy Zee joined Refuse Fascism host Sam Goldman for an online forum informed by listener questions on November 8, 2024 sponsored by Refuse Fascism in association with The RNL - Revolution Nothing Less - Show. We're sharing excerpts from the forum which can be watched in its entirety on YouTube. Follow Paul Street at paulstreet.substack.com.
For resources mentioned by Andy Zee, see revcom.us and follow @therevcoms and @bobavakianofficial on social media.
Resources to spread the message, "In The Name of Humanity, We Refuse To Accept a Fascist America":
Sticker Pack
Printable Poster in color
Printable Poster in black and white
Refuse Fascism Shop
Refuse Fascism T-Shirts:
Original
New (with slogan above)
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Nov 10, 202401:00:54

What you Need to Know Before the Election For Whatever Comes Next
With the election in just two days, Sam recaps essential points on refusing fascism in the event of various scenarios that may arise over the next few days and weeks. While there is much that we do not know about what will happen on Tuesday and after, we do know this: fascism is never legitimate. No election, fair or fraudulent, can legitimize a fascist regime. Join the online forum: Refuse Fascism Responds to the 2024 Election Friday, Nov 8 at 8PM ET. Sign-up to join us: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_FvJFMP5qSZO1pDEWtLaCxA
Then, Sam talks with Robert P. Jones, president and founder of Public Religion Research Institute (PRRI). His latest book is The Hidden Roots of White Supremacy. Check out Dr. Jones' writing at www.whitetoolong.net and listen to The Convocation Unscripted podcast on YouTube or follow on Substack: convocation.substack.com
Mentioned in this episode:
Radical Reports by Teddy Wilson
That “Little Secret” Between Trump and Johnson? Here’s What It Could Mean. by Elie Mystal
The Republican Supreme Court just blessed an illegal voter purge by Ian Millhiser
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Additional Resources:
Election Violence Is Already Here by Tess Owen
Meet the Far-Right Constitutional Sheriffs Ready to Assert Control if Trump Loses by Leah Feiger
How Republicans Could Help Trump Steal the Election from Harris by Justin Glawe and Asawin Suebsaeng
Nov 03, 202456:17

The 2024 Election: The Future Hangs In The Balance
Paul Street and Andy Zee joined Refuse Fascism host Sam Goldman for an online forum informed by listener questions on October 25, 2024 sponsored by Refuse Fascism and The RNL - Revolution Nothing Less - Show. We're sharing excerpts from the forum which can be watched in its entirety on YouTube. Follow Paul Street at paulstreet.substack.com.
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Oct 27, 202455:45

A Word From The Folks Calling Trump Fascist Since 2016
Friday, 10/25 at 6pm PT / 9pm ET join us for a livestreamed forum with Paul Street, Andy Zee and Sam Goldman, The 2024 Elections: The Future Hangs In the Balance, sponsored by Refuse Fascism and The RNL - Revolution Nothing Less - Show. Follow @RefuseFascism on social media to tune in and send your questions ahead of time to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org.
This episode is in response to the (very belated) warnings coming from Democratic Party and military leaders that Trump is (in the words of Trump's former top general Mark Milley) "a fascist to the core."
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Featuring:
Jeff Sharlet - Episode 31 (11/29/20)
Jason Stanley - Episode 20 (10/4/20)
Michael Coard - Episode 12 (8/9/20)
Coco Das - Episode 54 (4/11/21)
Walden Bello - Episode 61 (5/30/21)
Thomas Zimmer - Episode 92 (1/2/22)
Annika Brockschmidt - Episode 103 (3/20/22)
Andy Zee - Episode 32 (12/10/20)
Federico Finchelstein - Episode 49 (3/7/21)
Jared Yates Sexton - Episode 6 (6/28/20)
Henry Giroux - Episode 42 (1/24/21)
Anthony DiMaggio - Episode 108 (4/24/22)
Wajahat Ali - Episode 140 (12/31/22)
Anthea Butler - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Bradley Onishi - Episode 140 (12/31/22)
Dahlia Lithwick - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Ruth Ben Ghiat - Episode 3 (6/7/20)
Umair Haque - Episode 48 (2/28/21)
Jeff Sharlet - Episode 150 (3/26/23)
Jared Yates Sexton - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Brynn Tannehill - Episode 57 (5/2/21)
Thomas Zimmer - Episode 92 (1/2/22)
Wendy Via - Episode 179 (11/19/23)
Oct 20, 202401:45:56

Preparing for a Coup: What’s Changed, What Hasn’t
One month to go before the election, what's happening? Elon + X going all out to get Trump back in power, mass deportation plans, nakedly Nazi justifications for those horrific plans, voter rolls being purged, multiple climate-change fueled storms pummeling the southeast with storms of disinformation and death threats against meteorologists following, and more. The new apostolic march on Washington this past week called this election "America's last stand" - Sam discusses all this, then talks with Nick Quested, the filmmaker who embedded himself with the Proud Boys for the new documentary 64 Days (64daysfilm.com), which covers the period from the November 2020 election to the January 6, 2021 insurrection.
Mentioned in this episode:
Mike Hixenbaugh: Christians flock to Washington to pray for America to turn to God — by electing Trump
Matthew Taylor's notes on the New Apostolic "Million Women March"
Shane Goldmacher: Trump and Republicans Bet Big on Anti-Trans Ads Across the Country
Charlie Wardell: I'm Running Out of Ways to Explain How Bad This Is (What’s happening in America today is something darker than a misinformation crisis.)
Melissa Gira Grant: DeSantis Won't Let Hurricanes Disrupt His Attack on Abortion Rights
Myah Ward: We watched 20 Trump rallies. His racist, anti-immigrant messaging is getting darker.
Musk Is Going All In to Elect Trump.
Tierney Sneed: Biden administration sues Virginia over voter purge program
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Oct 13, 202455:45

Lessons of Kristallnacht, “Civil War,” and Mass Deportation
As we enter the final month before the November 2024 presidential election, Sam recaps recent developments including Jack Smith's recent court filing detailing the 2020 Trump coup attempt, the fascist disinformation campaign that is actively harming people in need of help and accurate information in the wake of Hurricane Helene while somehow blaming Democrats and more than anything, immigrants, for this climate-fueled destruction, and of course the "eyeliner on a pig" fascism on display during the Walz/Vance debate.
These recent developments set the stage for another heavy conversation about the parallels between Trump's rhetoric and the broader fascist movements plans for mass deportation and "one really violent hour" to Kristallnacht, the Nazi-led pogrom that marked a key turning point in the Holocaust. To discuss this she speaks with Zoltán Grossman, author of Lessons of Kristallnacht, “Civil War,” and Mass Deportation. Dr. Grossman is Professor of Geography and Native American and Indigenous Studies, The Evergreen State College, Olympia, Washington. Read more of his work at sites.evergreen.edu/zoltan.
Mentioned in this episode:
As election threats rise, Justice Dept. says its options are limited
Trump, The Purge, Black Nazis and the Language of Apocalyptic Lies and Violence
Relevant Episodes:
Combatting Disinformation
Chaos Comes Calling with Sasha Abramsky
Fascist Riots in the UK, Fascist Plots in the US
Don't forget: this month's Patron discussion is happening next week: October 13 at 3pm ET / 12pm PT. Be sure to watch the War Game film ahead of time: wargamefilm.com and register for the Zoom at patreon.com/refusefascism.
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Oct 07, 202401:08:56

Late Fascism with Alberto Toscano
Sam discusses the cruel and nakedly fascist “mass deportation” plank of both Project 2025 and the official GOP platform. Then, she talks with Dr. Alberto Toscano, author of Late Fascism: Race, Capitalism and the Politics of Crisis. Robin D. G. Kelley writes: "Late Fascism is brilliant, incisive, and right on time. We are living through a moment when the "F" word is no longer taboo and the threat of fascism lurks everywhere. And yet, so mired in debates over definitions, typologies, and analogies that our understanding of fascism remains elusive. Alberto Toscano avoids this trap by turning to anti-fascist thinkers, whose groundings in anticolonial, antiracist, and anticapitalist struggles remind us that liberalism is no enemy of fascism, and fascists flower in the hot house of capitalism."
Follow Dr. Toscano's work at sfu.ca and read his articles at inthesetimes.com.
Patrons! This month's discussion has been rescheduled to October 13 at 3pm ET / 12pm PT. Details are on Patreon - be sure to watch the War Game film ahead of time: wargamefilm.com.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Who’s Nazi Now? The Dangerous U.S. War on Immigrants
The Violent Take It by Force: The Christian Movement That Is Threatening Our Democracy
Thread by Matthew Taylor about JD Vance hosted by Lance Wallnau
Trump leans into anti-immigrant rants and Harris barbs at Wisconsin rally
Recommended Resources:
‘Infested,’ ‘Bloodbath, ‘Vermin’: A Guide to Trump’s Fascist Rhetoric
How Project 2025 Became Toxic and Exposed the Right’s Toxicity
JD Vance Speaks At Event Hosted By ‘Apostle’ Who Accused Kamala Harris of ‘Witchcraft’
How Politicians Made the Border Even More Dangerous for Asylum-Seekers
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Sep 29, 202401:00:16

How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers
Sam recaps recent developments including the escalating impact on the community of Springfield, Ohio from JD Vance’s Hitlerian lies about immigrants there, the Republican Party that is made up of “Black Nazis” like Mark Robinson, the fascist organizing at the level of the Georgia state election board to find ways to throw the election to Trump in November, plus the heartbreaking stories that are starting to come out as maternal mortality review committees uncover cases of women who did not need to die but were denied life-saving abortion care because of bans in their states post-Dobbs.
Then, she talks with Josh Cowen, author of The Privateers: How Billionaires Created a Culture War and Sold School Vouchers, about the anti-public school movement which is a key plank of Project 2025 and Agenda 47; who is behind this movement and what their true aims and the actual outcomes are.
Follow Josh’s work at @joshcowenMSU and josh-cowen.com and order the book here.
Mentioned in this episode:
Labelling Trump’s lies as ‘disputed’ on X makes supporters believe them more, study finds
Only in America: Mark Robinson's Politics of National Psychosis by John Ganz
Network of Georgia election officials strategizing to undermine 2024 result by Justin Glawe
Election-Deniers' Georgia Scheme Is Going Exactly According To Plan by Charles Pierce
Georgia election board requires poll workers to hand count ballots in November by April Rubin
Right-wing media cheer as MAGA election board causes chaos in Georgia by Courtney Hagle
Abortion Bans Have Delayed Emergency Medical Care. In Georgia, Experts Say This Mother’s Death Was Preventable. by Kavitha Surana
Afraid to Seek Care Amid Georgia’s Abortion Ban, She Stayed at Home and Died
Amber Nicole Thurman’s Death Was Preventable
Investigation links Georgia’s abortion ban to preventable deaths of 2 women
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Sep 23, 202451:47

Chaos Comes Calling with Sasha Abramsky
Sam recaps recent events including the lynch mob atmosphere being whipped up against immigrants in general and Black Haitian immigrants in particular after white supremacists in Ohio started vicious lies against Haitians. These lies have been further amplified by J.D. Vance and Donald Trump including from the national debate stage with Kamala Harris this past week.
Unfortunately these recent events couldn’t be more timely alongside this week’s discussion with Sasha Abramsky, author of the new book Chaos Comes Calling: The Battle Against the Far-Right Takeover of Small-Town America. From Eric Klinenberg :“In this chilling report from the American West, Abramsky shows how the extreme right has mobilized to upend local democratic institutions and warns of a fascist threat that’s alarmingly close and widespread. A disturbing, necessary book.”
Order the book here now.
Follow Sasha on X-Twitter at @abramskysasha and learn more about his work at sashaabramsky.com and thenation.com
Related episodes:
The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
“White Rural Rage” with Tom Schaller
The White Power Movement in 2024
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Sep 15, 202443:13

Dispatch on American Political Dystopia
Sam recaps recent events and then talks with Paul Street about the GOP's unfolding plans to suppress the vote, intimidate their opposition (including by raiding extremely mainstream activists in Texas with LULAC [The League of Latin American Citizens] and sending police to the homes of people signing pro-abortion rights petitions in Florida), and unleash violence at multiple levels should Trump be declared the loser in November. In response to all this the Democrats are celebrating... the addition of Dick Cheney to their "big tent."
Paul writes, "The nation is careening to some kind of constitutional crisis and potential major civil conflict after the next election. Anarchic US capitalism-imperialism has hatched a two-party system whose right-/Reich-most wing no longer accepts defeat through mere elections, no matter how tilted to the right the nation’s electoral rules are... [and yet] There is liberating opportunity as well as eliminationist and authoritarian menace in the current perilous moment."
Follow Paul Street's writings at paulstreet.substack.com.
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Mentioned In This Episode:
Is Trump Building an Army of Modern Blackshirts? by Bob Dreyfuss
Dispatch on American Political Dystopia by Paul Street
Want to Call Trump an F-Word? by Paul Street
Two Essays and One Interview by Paul Street
Democracy Needs The Loser by Barbara F. Walter
The Election Story Nobody Wants to Talk About Rick Perlstein Q&A With David Neiwert
Revolution Number 78 by Bob Avakian
Ep 187 of the Refuse Fascism Podcast: The White Power Movement in 2024
Ep 196 of the Refuse Fascism Podcast: Fascism On Trial With Anthony DiMaggio and Henry Giroux
Ep 198 of the Refuse Fascism Podcast: Constitutional Sheriffs, Militias, and Other Local Fascist Initiatives
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Sep 08, 202452:16

Who’s Afraid Of (Talking About) The Christian Right?
Sam talks with returning guest Annika Brockschmidt about the ideology that binds Trump's GOP. Brockschmidt is a trained historian, author and journalist. She wrote two bestselling books on the history of the US religious right and the Republican Party. Follow Annika on BlueSky. German-speaking audiences can read her latest book Die Brandstifter: Wie Extremisten die Republikanische Partei übernahmen and listen to her on the two podcasts she hosts Kreuz und Flagge and Feminist Shelf Control.
Mentioned In The Interview:
The GOP Is Saying the Quiet Part Out Loud by Annika Brockschmidt
Coverage of NATCON for Religion Dispatches by Annika Brockschmidt and Ben Lober
Related Episodes:
Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism's Unholy War on Democracy
Fascism Isn't Just a German Problem
Rick Perlstein: The Infernal Triangle + Christian Nationalist Project 2025
The Evangelical Prophets Anointing Trump
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Photo copyright for Annika Brockshchmidt is Frederike Wetzels
Sep 02, 202456:15

The Young Person's Illustrated Guide to American Fascism + DNC Vibes
Sam discusses the joy fest during the DNC and the growing gulf between those who think you can stop fascism in the US while still enabling a genocide in Gaza, and those who think that is completely incompatible. Cheers to all the protesters at the DNC for telling the truth this past week. Follow @uncommittedmvmt on TikTok for the voices clipped in today's episode.
Then, she talks with Stephen Eisenman, Professor Emeritus of Art History at Northwestern University. He has a forthcoming book out with artist collaborator Sue Coe titled The Young Person’s Illustrated Guide to American Fascism (available in October; preorder now). Eisenman is also the author of numerous articles and nine books including The Abu Ghraib Effect and The Ecology of Impressionism. Eisenman is also a curator, critic, activist and co-founder of the environmental non-profit, Anthropocene Alliance. He is a regular contributor to the online publication CounterPunch. View Sue Coe's artwork at suecoe.com and follow her on Instagram at @suecoeart.
Mentioned in this episode:
Celebrating at the DNC in a Time of Genocide by Adam Johnson (The Nation)
Ep 212 The GOP, Netanyahu and Jewish Safety
Ep. 210 The War on Women & The Genocide in Gaza
Ep 202 Perspectives on Stopping Fascism
Ep 200 This American Fascism: A Retrospective
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Aug 25, 202446:25

Fascist Riots in the UK, Fascist Plots in the US
This week, Sam discusses recent developments including Project 2025 Phase 2, the efforts of Republi-Fascists to subvert elections and the Democratic National Convention's approach to combating fascism (is it weird or is it fascism?).
She then welcomes Sian Norris back on the show to discuss the fascist riots in the UK that targeted asylum seekers and Muslims following a lethal mass stabbing in Southport England. Sian Norris is a senior investigative reporter at openDemocracy (read her work here) and author of Bodies Under Siege: How the Far-Right Attack on Reproductive Rights Went Global. You can follow Sian on X @sianunshka.
Mentioned In This Episode:
Great Replacement & boogaloo: The ideology driving the modern far right by Sian Norris
US air force avoids PFAS water cleanup, citing supreme court’s Chevron ruling by Tom Perkins
Undercover in Project 2025 by Tom Costello and Lawrence Carter (Centre for Climate Reporting)
Inside Project 2025’s Secret Training Videos by Andy Kroll and Nick Surgey
These Swing State Election Officials Are Pro-Trump Election Deniers by Justin Glawe
'A different level than 2020’: Trump’s plan to steal election is taking shape by Sam Levine
Get Ready Now: Republicans Will Refuse to Certify a Harris Win by A.B. Stoddard
More Resources:
Trump and His MAGA Movement Are Actively ‘Hijacking’ Georgia’s Elections by Justin Glawe
MAGA Election Deniers Are Going All Out to Rig Georgia for Trump by Ari Berman
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf. Support the show at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Aug 18, 202458:20

The GOP, Netanyahu & Jewish Safety
Biden's out of the race and many people are feeling more optimistic about Kamala Harris beating Trump in the election... Sam comments about the new situation, what dangers lie ahead and what we can rely on to stop fascism and build a better world.
Then, Sam talks with Graie Hagans, Chief Vision Officer with Bend the Arc: Jewish Action about the roots and origins of antisemitism, the current dangers and complex dynamics of the moment in the US and how Jewish communities and individuals can truly be kept safe in an era of rising antisemitism. Check out their guide on how to talk about antisemitism "like we believe we can end it together" at dismantlingantisemitism.org.
Extra relevant this week as the fascist president of Israel addressed a joint session of Congress this week, read the open letter to Biden:
Bend The Arc: Jewish Action Sounds The Alarm:
Continued U.S. Support for the Siege of Gaza is a Threat to Millions Abroad and Democracy at Home
Cheers to Jewish Voice for Peace and everyone who mobilized to protest Netanyahu this week! Read:
“Not in Our Name”: 400 Jewish Activists Arrested Protesting Netanyahu Address
A guide to the Jewish and Israeli groups that protested Netanyahu’s DC visit
*Note, there will be no new episodes for a couple weeks, but we will be back! Tune in August 18.
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jul 29, 202456:05

The Fascist Spectacle at the RNC + Resistance We Need
This week Sam shares commentary on the fascist spectacle that was the RNC along with other recent developments and how and why we must resolutely oppose fascism. Then, Sam talks with Karl Folk, a researcher of authoritarianism and radicalization and the founder of the Institute of Unreality. He writes for Splinter News on their authoritarianism and American politics team. Read his latest: The Nefarious Figures Behind the Far-Right Who Predate Trump. You can find him on X and Bluesky @brainnotonyet.
Mentioned in this episode:
Five things to know about J.D. Vance’s ties to tech billionaires by Bobby Allyn (NPR)
This Land Is Mein Land by John Ganz
Breaking News Re-Release: "Hillbilly Elegy" - If Books Could Kill podcast
Weekly Roundup: JD Vance, Peter Thiel, and Leonard Leo Episode of Straight White American Jesus Hosted by Bradley Onishi
Jeff Sharlet thread on X
JD Vance on Abortion by Jessica Valenti
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jul 22, 202401:05:22

The War on Women & the Genocide in Gaza
This episode features interviews from the past two intense weeks... first Sam discusses recent events and updates from the intensifying situation in the US.
Then, we share two interviews: first with Aziza Ahmed to discuss the implications of two years without Roe and recent SCOTUS rulings on abortion rights. Aziza is a professor of law at Boston University where she also serves as the Co-Founder and Director of the BU Program on Reproductive Justice. Follow Aziza's work at bu.edu/law/profile/aziza-ahmed.
Then, Sam talks with returning guest and prolific commentator Wajahat Ali about Trump, the recent vile slate of SCOTUS decisions including the declaration that the president is a king, and the deteriorating situation in Gaza as the US-backed Israeli siege drags on with no end in sight. Follow Wajahat at thelefthook.substack.com and @wajahatali.
TOMORROW: The Coalition to March on the RNC is planning a major march and rally on the first day of the RNC in Milwaukee, WI on July 15, 2024. Rally at 11 AM CST in Red Arrow Park: marchonrnc2024.org
Recommended:
The breaking news consumer's handbook from On the Media
Abortion, Every Day by Jessica Valenti
Experts: Georgia GOP officials lay groundwork to "obstruct" and "subvert" election certification by Tatyana Tandanpolie
Trump v. United States episode of the 5-4 podcast
Special Coverage on NATCON 2024 by Annika Brockschmidt and Ben Lorber for Religion Dispatches
Inside Ziklag, the Secret Organization of Wealthy Christians Trying to Sway the Election and Change the Country by Andy Kroll, for ProPublica, and Nick Surgey, for Documented
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jul 14, 202401:05:56

The Fascist Führer Decision + Schedule F
Sam discusses the pivotal decision from the fascist-dominated Supreme Court to grant Trump permission to commit crimes through the immunity ruling this past year with historian Paul Street, along with the slew of other terrible rulings. Of course while this ruling would seem to green-light the current president to act as a king unbound by any rule over his “official acts,” the Biden administration and Congressional Democrats did not announce any action in response to this chilling marker on the slide towards fascism. Read and listen to more from Paul Street at https://paulstreet.substack.com/
Then, she talks with HuffPost reporter Matt Shuham about his latest article, “Schedule F: The 'Chilling' Trump Plan That Could Pave The Way For Authoritarianism.” Schedule F is the mechanism referenced in Project 2025 that will allow the widescale replacement of civll servants with Trump loyalists throughout government. Follow Matt on Twitter/Threads/BlueSky/Mastodon at @mattshuham and read more of his work at https://www.huffpost.com/author/matt-shuham and https://gatheringstring.substack.com/
*This episode was recorded and uploaded prior to the second round of French elections.
By popular demand! Get your Refuse Fascism T-Shirt here: https://www.bonfire.com/refuse-fascism-pod-shirt/
Mentioned In this episode:
The Supreme Court Puts Trump Above the Law by Adam Serwer
The Supreme Court Is Fully MAGA-Pilled. The Time for Action Is Now or Never. by Dahlia Lithwick and Mark Joseph Stern
American Midnight: The Great War, a Violent Peace, and Democracy's Forgotten Crisis
Illiberal America: A History by Steven Hahn
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jul 07, 202401:13:05

The “Debate,” SCOTUS & the Constitutional Bind
Sam Goldman recaps the events of this past week including the totally illegitimate "debate" debacle between Trump and Biden, plus the slew of despotic rulings from the Trump's unelected "Supreme" Court.
Then, Sam interviews legal scholar and author Aziz Rana to take a deeper look at U.S. Constitution and its veneration to understand how it has supported the rise and preservation of Trump. He currently serves as Provost’s Distinguished Fellow and J. Donald Monan, S.J., University Professor of Law and Government at Boston College Law School. His latest book, The Constitutional Bind: How Americans Came to Idolize a Document that Fails Them, explores the modern emergence of constitutional veneration in the twentieth century. You can connect with Aziz and find more of his work at azizrana.com.
Mentioned in this episode:
March on the RNC in Milwaukee, WI July 15
The Constitution Won’t Save Us From Trump by Aziz Rana
The Supreme Court Chooses to Throw January 6 Rioters a Bone by Madiba K. Dennie
The Supreme Court just lit a match and tossed it into dozens of federal agencies by Ian Millhiser
Why the Leaked SCOTUS Ruling Isn't a Victory by Jessica Valenti
The Originalism Trap With Madiba K. Dennie
The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
The Draft Proposal Constitution For The New Socialist Republic In North America
We Are Witnessing the Biggest Judicial Power Grab Since 1803 by Elie Mystal
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. Find us on all the socials: @RefuseFascism. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support at patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Jun 30, 202401:16:20

The Originalism Trap With Madiba K. Dennie
This week Sam shares commentary on the second anniversary of the overturn of Roe & the stripping away of the federal protection of abortion rights. Then she welcomes Madiba K. Dennie back on the show to discuss originalism as the underlying theory behind some of the worst recent Supreme Court decisions. Madiba is the Deputy Editor and Senior Contributor at Balls & Strikes and author of The Originalism Trap: How Extremists Stole the Constitution and How We The People Can Take It Back. You can follow Madiba on X-Twitter @AudreLawdAMercy (and audrelawdamercy on Bluesky).
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned In This Episode:
Refuse Fascism episode 197 with Merle Hoffman: Choices: A Post-Roe Abortion Rights Manifesto
Refuse Fascism episode 205: Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism’s Unholy War on Democracy
Anatomy of a Christian Nationalist Strategy: Ten Commandments in Louisiana by Sarah Posner
Supreme Court Rules Against Married Couple in Blow to Immigrant Families by Mike Ludwig, TruthoutThe US supreme court’s rightwing justices are fighting legal monsters of their making by Moira Donegan, The Guardian
Related Interviews:
The Court Is Wrong; Color-Blindness Serving White Supremacy
Andrew Seidel: American Crusades & the Supreme Court
The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
Jun 24, 202454:33

Constructing MAGA Lore: Trump's Convictions, January 6 and American Political Violence
This week Mark Tinkleman guest hosts the pod, covering SCOTUS decisions on the abortion medication mifepristone as well as gun control, Trump’s support from powerful people, the Southern Baptist Convention's attack on IVF, and a listener’s feedback.
Then Sam welcomes researcher Teddy Wilson back on to discuss how the MAGA movement is weaving Trump's conviction and Jan. 6 into a lore of violence and victimization. They discuss the historical similarities between the events surrounding Jan. 6th and other episodes of political violence in American history and understanding the roots of the US fascist movement.
Follow Teddy's Substack, Radical Reports and listen to his new podcast “Insurrectionist Cookbook."
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned In This Episode:
There’s a Time Bomb Hidden In the Supreme Court’s Abortion Pills Decision by Madiba Dennie on Balls and StrikesThe Right’s Politics of Revenge by Thomas Zimmer
Related Interviews:
Teddy Wilson on the Metastasizing Fascist Base
Teddy Wilson: Fascist Violence Accelerated
The Convicted Felon & “Day One” Dictator
Ian Millhiser on Trump’s Trials + Paul Street on Jan 6 Anniversary
Jun 17, 202444:19

Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism’s Unholy War on Democracy
Sam interviews filmmaker Stephen Ujlaki about his latest film Bad Faith: Christian Nationalism's Unholy War on Democracy. This feature-length documentary is available for streaming on Apple TV+, Amazon Prime, Google Play & YouTube. See trailer here. For information about the film, including a listing of screenings & how to organize a screening in your community visit badfaithdocumentary.com.
From the Variety review of the film:
"The Christian Nationalist movement was the driving force behind the January 6 insurrection, and what we saw there was a preview of their ideals and methods: a frothing hostility toward the U.S. government, coupled with the willingness to use violence. Russell Moore, the editor
of Christianity Today, talks about how the new wave of Christianity is “a church growth movement, but for angry people. A sense of theatrical anger feels, to some, like depth of conviction.” Yet even on Jan. 6, these “rebels,” participating in their own form of action-movie cosplay, were, like Trump himself, at least somewhat constrained. What “Bad Faith” captures is that Christian Nationalists now have the potential to be the shock troops in a second and far more threatening Trump presidency."
Plus, Sam discusses the increasingly dire situation for women across the country where abortion has been banned, the latest developments for immigrants, the perfidious US-Israeli war crime that just killed 200 Palestinian civilians, and more.
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned In the Episode:
Post-Dobbs, Abortion Bans Have Given Abusers a New Power by Kylie Cheung for Jezebel
Implausible Deniability Republicans know exactly what abortion bans are doing by Jessica Valenti
Refuse Fascism Podcast Ep 197 - Choices: A Post-Roe Abortion Rights Manifesto an interview with Merle Hoffman
Refuse Fascism Podcast Ep 193 - Rick Perlstein: The Infernal Triangle + Christian Nationalist Project 2025 (an interview with Jenny Cohn)
The Theocratic Blueprint for Trump’s Next Term by Chris Lehman for The Nation
Charismatic Revival Fury: The New Apostolic Reformation Podcast Series written by Matthew D. Taylor and produced by Bradley Onishi
Refuse Fascism Podcast Ep 98 Anne Nelson: Media, Money, & the Secret Hub of the Radical Right
Refuse Fascism Podcast Ep 93 Samuel Perry: Christian Nationalist Violence Post January 6
Related Episodes:
Combatting Disinformation
The Evangelical Prophets Anointing Trump
The Nightmare That Is House Speaker Mike Johnson
Jun 09, 202459:02

The Convicted Felon & “Day One” Dictator
Sam discusses the historic guilty verdict that was just rendered by a jury against Trump this past week (34 felonies for falsifying business records to cover up hush money payments to Stormy Daniels, all for the purposes of ensuring his illegitimate election in 2016), along with the slew of unhinged fascist threats and rants that have come in the aftermath of the verdict.
Then, as this guilty verdict has in no way stopped his campaign for power again, she talks with two contributors to the June issue of The New Republic titled What American Fascism Would Look Like. Emmanuel Guerisoli discusses his essay The “Day One” Dictatorship (co-authored by Federico Finchelstein). Emmanuel is postdoctoral fellow at the Zolberg Institute on Migration and Mobility at the New School. He can be followed at @emmaGuerisoli.
Then, Francisco Goldman discusses his essay From Texas to Massachusetts: On the border in a fascist America. Francisco is a novelist and journalist. His most recent novel is Monkey Boy, a Pulitzer Prize finalist. He can be followed on ex-Twitter at @PacoGoldman or on Instagram @franciscogoldman.
Mentioned in this episode:
Escalator Redux by Jeff Sharlet (Scenes From a Slow Civil War)
The United States Looks Like a Sick Joke, The Paul Street Report
Trump’s Online MAGA Army Calls Guilty Verdict a Declaration of War by Tess Owen for Wired
Right-Wingers Are Already Promising Vengeance After The Trump Verdict by Matt Shuham and Christopher Mathias for HuffPost
“Make Them Pay”—The Far Right Responds to Trump’s Conviction By Kiera Butler for Mother Jones
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Related Episodes:
This American Fascism: A Retrospective
The Wannabe Fascist
The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
The Nightmare Immigrants Face at the Texas Border
Perspectives on Stopping Fascism in the US in 2024
Jun 02, 202401:09:21

The Freedom to Dominate with Jefferson Cowie
Sam interviews historian Dr. Jefferson Cowie, author of Freedom’s Dominion: A Saga of White Resistance to Federal Power (winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize). Jeff serves as the James G. Stahlman Chair in the Department of History at Vanderbilt University. He was recently honored with a 2024 Guggenheim Fellowship - in part, in anticipation of his upcoming project, tentatively titled Crosswinds of a Common History. You can find more of Jeff's writing including information on his other three books here.
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned in the episode:
The ‘Unified Reich’ Scandal is a Feature Not a Bug of Trump's Brand of American Fascism by Annika Brockschmidt for Religion Dispatches
Refuse Fascism episode 181: The Evangelical Prophets Anointing Trump with Matthew D. Taylor
Straight White American Jesus Special Episode: Justice Alito Let's His Appeal to Heaven Flag Fly
The Supreme Court's new voting rights decision is a love letter to gerrymandering by Ian Millhiser for Vox
Refuse Fascism episode 197: Choices: A Post-Roe Abortion Rights Manifesto
Fascism in America? (Part 1 of a deep dive into the "fascism debate") by Thomas Zimmer
The Anti-Liberal Left Has a Fascism Problem (Part 2 of a deep dive into the "fascism debate") by Thomas Zimmer
May 26, 202449:29

Perspectives on Stopping Fascism in the US in 2024
This week Sam Goldman (@SamBGoldman) and Coco Das (@Coco_Das) have a wide ranging conversation with Dr. Clarence Lusane and Sunsara Taylor over what it will take to stop fascism in the United States. We discuss the 2024 elections in the context of the prospect of civil war, the genocide in Gaza and the uprising to stop it, the threat of today's wars spiraling out of control, the nature of the fascist threat, and the possibility of wrenching a better future out of this moment.
Dr. Clarence Lusane is a political science professor and interim political science department chair at Howard University, and independent expert to the European Commission Against Racism and Intolerance. HIs latest book is Twenty Dollars and Change: Harriet Tubman and the Ongoing Fight for Racial Justice and Democracy. Read more from Dr. Lusane here
Sunsara Taylor (@SunsaraTaylor) is the co-host of the RNL (Revolution Nothing Less) Show on YouTube. She helped initiate Refuse Fascism in the aftermath of the election of Trump. Sunsara led tens of thousands into the streets against the overturn of Roe v Wade w/ RiseUp4AbortionRights.
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Related Episodes:
The Cataclysm of a Second Trump Term
Sunsara Taylor: Forced Motherhood = Female Enslavement
This American Fascism: A Retrospective
May 20, 202458:57

The Wannabe Fascist
Sam discusses the events of this past week including Trump's trials (including what's getting prosecuted and what's being postponed indefinitely), the escalating genocide in Gaza as the Israeli military started to invade Rafah and the ongoing bravery of students across the country who continue to demand an end to this genocide.
Then, we share an interview with acclaimed historian and returning guest Dr. Federico Finchelstein to discuss his latest book The Wannabe Fascists: A Guide to Understanding the Greatest Threat to Democracy. Dr. Finchelstein serves as Professor of History at the New School for Social Research and Eugene Lang College in New York City. He is also the author of From Fascism to Populism in History (published 2017/2019) A Brief History of Fascist Lies, (published in 2020) and Fascist Mythologies The History and Politics of Unreason in Borges, Freud, and Schmitt (published in 2022). Follow him on Twitter at @FinchelsteinF.
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned in this Episode:
U of C student interviewed by FOX 32 from the frontlines about what the student movement is fighting for.
Related Episodes:
Fascist Lies with Federico Finchelstein
Federico Finchelstein: "White Replacement Theory" & Fascism
May 12, 202450:40

This American Fascism: A Retrospective
We're sharing a round-up of excerpts from interviews over the past four years with 20 experts on fascism. If you want to know "what is US fascism in this century" or "who are the fascists in America" or "where did fascism in the US come from" - this is your crash course (and it's episode 200!).
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned in this Episode:
How Far Trump Would Go by Eric Cortalessa (Time)
Featuring:
Jeff Sharlet - Episode 31 (11/29/20)
Jason Stanley - Episode 20 (10/4/20)
Michael Coard - Episode 12 (8/9/20)
Coco Das - Episode 54 (4/11/21)
Walden Bello - Episode 61 (5/30/21)
Thomas Zimmer - Episode 92 (1/2/22)
Annika Brockschmidt - Episode 103 (3/20/22)
Andy Zee - Episode 32 (12/10/20)
Federico Finchelstein - Episode 49 (3/7/21)
Jared Yates Sexton - Episode 6 (6/28/20)
Henry Giroux - Episode 42 (1/24/21)
Anthony DiMaggio - Episode 108 (4/24/22)
Wajahat Ali - Episode 140 (12/31/22)
Anthea Butler - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Bradley Onishi - Episode 140 (12/31/22)
Dahlia Lithwick - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Ruth Ben Ghiat - Episode 3 (6/7/20)
Umair Haque - Episode 48 (2/28/21)
Jeff Sharlet - Episode 150 (3/26/23)
Jared Yates Sexton - Episode 91 (12/26/21)
Brynn Tannehill - Episode 57 (5/2/21)
Thomas Zimmer - Episode 92 (1/2/22)
Wendy Via - Episode 179 (11/19/23)
May 05, 202401:32:05

"White Rural Rage" with Tom Schaller
It’s been one of those weeks… Sam shares commentary on the wildly fascist logic coming from the Supreme Court this past week (the president is likely immune from prosecution for the attempted coup in Jan 2021, and federal law will likely no longer require emergency rooms to provide life-saving abortions…), the wave of repression sweeping American universities against the courageous students and professors continuing to demand an end to the US-supported genocide in Gaza waged by Israel, plus notes on the indictments released by Arizona against a who’s who list of fascists including the fake electors who attempted to substitute themselves during the 2020 coup attempt.
Then, she talks with Tom Schaller, co-author (along with Paul Waldman) of White Rural Rage. Schaller is a professor of political science at the University of Maryland, Baltimore County. A former columnist for The Baltimore Sun, he has written for The New York Times, The Washington Post, and the Los Angeles Times. He is the author or co-author of four other books.
Mentioned in the episode:
Donald Trump Already Got What He Needed From the Supreme Court by Madiba K. Dennie for Balls and Strikes
Donald Trump had a fantastic day in the Supreme Court today by Ian Millhiser for Vox
The Supreme Court’s likely to make it more dangerous to be pregnant in a red state by Ian Millhiser for Vox
Supreme Court Justices Hold Lively Debate About How Much Women Should Suffer by Madiba K. Dennie for Balls and Strikes
The US supreme court heard one of the most sadistic, extreme anti-abortion cases yet by Moira Donegan for the Guardian
The Crackdown on Campus Protests Is Happening Everywhere
Fash Supremes Helping Immunize Amerika Against what's Left of Democracy by Paul Street
Supreme "Surprise" by Paul Street
Why did 74 Million Vote for Trump? The simple and basic answer: Because they agree with him. Presentation by Andy Zee
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Related Episodes
Carol Anderson: White Supremacy & the Second Amendment
Sarah Posner: The GOP’s Christian Supremacy Problem
The Evangelical Prophets Anointing Trump
The Flag and the Cross and the Little Blue Bird
Samuel Perry: Christian Nationalist Violence Post January 6
Genocide in Gaza, Repression in the US
Apr 28, 202401:02:36

Constitutional Sheriffs, Militias, and Other Local Fascist Initiatives
Sam talks with three experts on widespread local fascist organizing around the country including the so-called Constitutional Sheriffs movement, the embrace by local governments of right wing militias and fascist efforts to modify the constitution itself.
Devin Burghart (@dburghart) is the Executive Director, at the Institute for Research & Education on Human Rights. Carolyn Gallaher is a professor at American University. She has written about rightwing paramilitaries in the U.S. and Northern Ireland. Read more from her here. Follow her on Twitter at @C_OGallachoir or at Bluesky at @cgallaher.bsky.social. CJ Spencer (@ByCJSpencer) wrote How the Far Right-Wing Plans to Obliterate More of Our Constitutional Rights. Read more from them here.
Upcoming Event!Join us for our next Patron-only Virtual Event:Sunday April 28, 5PM ET Book Club Chat discussing Prophet Song by Paul Lynch
Register for Zoom at http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism (see pinned post)*Not a patron? Fix that here: http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· http://patreon.com/RefuseFascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mentioned in this Episode:
Inside the Gaza Solidarity Encampment at Columbia University by Lara-Nour Walton (The Nation)
January 6 insurrectionists had a great day in the Supreme Court today (Most of the justices seem to want to make it harder to prosecute January 6 rioters.) by Ian Millhiser (Vox)
The Supreme Court’s confusing new anti-trans decision, explained (The Court mostly reinstates Idaho’s ban on transgender health care for children.) by Ian Millhiser (Vox)
The Supreme Court effectively abolishes the right to mass protest in three US states (It is no longer safe to organize a protest in Louisiana, Mississippi, or Texas.) by Ian Millhiser (Vox)
Apr 21, 202401:12:46

Choices: A Post Roe Abortion Rights Manifesto
Sam talks with Merle Hoffman, long-time abortion rights activist and founder of one of the largest abortion clinics in the country, who has just written a memoir chronicling her decades of experience fighting for abortion rights. Get the book here: Choices: A Post Roe Abortion Rights Manifestomerlehoffman.com and choicesmedical.com or on Twitter: @MerleHoffman.
For those looking for abortion care visit abortionfinder.org and prochoice.org
For funding abortion agencies nationally visit abortionfunds.org.
About the book:
In the wake of the Supreme Court overturning Roe V. Wade and a country divided, a pioneer in the pro-choice movement and women's healthcare offers an unapologetic and authoritative take on abortion and women's right to choose. Merle Hoffman has been at the forefront of the reproductive freedom movement since the 1970s. Three years before the Supreme Court legalized abortion through Roe v. Wade, she helped to establish one of the United States' first abortion centers in Flushing, Queens, and later went on to found Choices, one of the nation's largest and most comprehensive women's medical facilities.
For the last five decades, Hoffman has been a steadfast warrior and fierce advocate for every woman's right to choose when and whether or not to be a mother. Now, amidst the aftermath of the Dobbs Decision, Hoffman has carefully compiled her decades of analysis, research, and experience into a tour de force manifesto that sheds light on the catastrophic repercussions of overturning Roe, and what we must do moving forward to ensure the safety and legality of abortion nationally. In Choices, Hoffman expresses her views on where we are and what lies ahead. She covers topics ranging from: revamping the healthcare system to support women's rights; combatting rising authoritarianism; the weaponization of religion; fighting the antis; practicing courage; sabotage from within
the movement; and activating the next generation in the fight for reproductive justice.
Upcoming Event!Join us for our next Patron-only Virtual Event:Sunday April 28, 5PM ET Book Club Chat discussing Prophet Song by Paul Lynch
Register for Zoom at Patreon.com/RefuseFascism (see pinned post)*Not a patron? Fix that here: patreon.com/refusefascism
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Related Episodes:
Rick Perlstein: The Infernal Triangle + Christian Nationalist Project 2025
Project 2025: Roadmap for Fascist Consolidation
Abortion, Birth Control and What’s Next with Roxy Szal + Commentary From Coco Das
Voices from Abortion Rights Frontlines in Iowa
Speedbumps on the Highway to Christian Fascism and the Resistance Still Needed
The Fascist Attack On Medication Abortion
The Post-Dobbs Human Rights Emergency
Apr 14, 202451:53

Fascism On Trial with Anthony DiMaggio and Henry Giroux
Sam welcomes back onto the show Anthony DiMaggio and Henry Giroux to discuss their latest book Fascism on Trial: Education and the Possibility of Democracy. Dr. Henry A. Giroux is a renowned educator and author of multiple books on fascism and pedagogy. He holds the Chair for Scholarship in the Public Interest in English and Cultural Studies at McMaster University, Canada. Follow Dr. Giroux on Twitter at @HenryGiroux and visit his website at henryagiroux.com.
Dr. Anthony R. DiMaggio is a Professor of Political Science at Lehigh University, USA. He is the author of Rising Fascism in America: It Can Happen Here. Read his writings at Counterpunch and Salon.
Upcoming Event!
Join us for our next Patron-only Virtual Event:April 28, 5PM ET Book Club Chat discussing Prophet Song by Paul Lynch*Not a patron? Fix that here: patreon.com/refusefascism
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Previous Episodes with Henry Giroux:The Nazification of American Education Trump Is Not Trumpism and Trumpism Is Not Dead
Previous Episodes with Anthony DiMaggio:The Continuing January 6 Coup It Can, It Has, It Is Happening Here The Evidence of Rising Neo-Fascism
Mar 31, 202443:52

Fascism Isn't Just a German Problem
Sam speaks to the Supreme Court facilitating the further erosion of civil rights & foreboding upcoming elections outside of the U.S.
Then, frequent guest and guest host of the show, Coco Das shares reflections on SB4 (Texas' "Show Me Your Papers" law) and talks with award-winning Turkish writer and political thinker Ece Temelkuran discussing her essay in Prospect Magazine, Fascism isn’t just a German problem. Follow Ece on Twitter @ETemelkuran. She'll be speaking at Ways Forward in a Divided World, Georgetown University Global Dialogues April 22-26.
Mentioned in this Episode:
Supreme Court grants Gov. Greg Abbott's wish to turn Texas into a far-right dictatorship by Amanda Marcotte The Fascist Attack on Medication Abortion
Upcoming Event!
Join us for our next Patron-only Virtual Event:April 28, 5PM ET Book Club Chat discussing Prophet Song by Paul Lynch*Not a patron? Fix that here: patreon.com/refusefascism
Find out more about Refuse Fascism and get involved at RefuseFascism.org. We're still on Twitter (@RefuseFascism) and other social platforms including Threads, Mastodon and Bluesky. Plus, Sam is on TikTok, check out @samgoldmanrf.
You can also send your comments to samanthagoldman@refusefascism.org or @SamBGoldman. Record a voice message for the show here. Connect with the movement at RefuseFascism.org and support:
· paypal.me/refusefascism
· donate.refusefascism.org
· patreon.com/refusefascism
· Venmo: Refuse-Fascism
· Cashapp: $RefuseFascism
Music for this episode: Penny the Snitch by Ikebe Shakedown
Mar 24, 202434:51