Resisting the Radical Right: How to Protect American Democracy
January 29, 2025 | Nancy MacLean with Patt Morrison: Democracy in Chains: How We Got Here and How to Prepare for What’s Next
In a recent America at a Crossroads discussion, historian and public policy expert Nancy MacLean—author of Democracy in Chains: The Deep History of the Radical Right’s Stealth Plan for America—issued a stark warning about the ongoing threats to American democracy. According to MacLean, a well-organized and billionaire-funded movement has spent decades working to dismantle democratic institutions, restrict voting rights, and consolidate power among the ultra-wealthy. However, she also emphasized that citizens have the power to fight back. From legal challenges to grassroots activism, there are clear ways to resist these efforts and preserve democracy.
Recognizing the Threats to Democracy
The first step in fighting back is understanding the tactics of the radical right. MacLean warns that their strategy is not just about winning elections but fundamentally reshaping American governance in ways that permanently weaken democratic institutions. This includes:
- Voter suppression through restrictive ID laws, gerrymandering, and mass purges of voter rolls.
- Judicial manipulation by stacking courts with Federalist Society-aligned judges who rule in favor of corporate and right-wing interests.
- Deregulation and privatization of public services like education, healthcare, and environmental protections to benefit billionaires.
- Disinformation campaigns designed to divide the electorate and undermine trust in government.
A major component of this strategy, MacLean explains, is overloading the public with chaos and controversy—a tactic often referred to as “flooding the zone.” The goal is to create a state of public exhaustion and apathy, making it harder for people to focus on real policy changes happening behind the scenes.
The Courts as a Battleground for Democracy
One of the strongest tools for resisting authoritarianism is the legal system. Despite the radical right’s efforts to reshape the judiciary, courts remain an important line of defense against unconstitutional policies.
Recent legal victories, such as blocking attempts to end birthright citizenship and striking down bans on DEI programs, demonstrate that litigation is a powerful resistance tool. MacLean emphasizes that supporting legal organizations and pro-democracy attorneys is essential in the fight to uphold constitutional rights. Groups like Democracy 2025 are working with legal experts to challenge undemocratic policies before they take root.
Fighting Back Against Media Manipulation
Another key battleground is the information war. The radical right has spent decades investing in media networks to shape public opinion, from Fox News to think tanks and digital disinformation campaigns. MacLean warns that mainstream media is often complicit in normalizing right-wing extremism by treating it as a legitimate political ideology rather than a direct assault on democracy.
To counteract this, media literacy is crucial. Citizens must:
- Identify and expose misleading narratives that are designed to manipulate public opinion.
- Support independent journalism that prioritizes factual reporting over corporate interests.
Call out anticipatory obedience—the tendency of media organizations, universities, and public figures to self-censor or accommodate authoritarian forces rather than challenge them.
Grassroots Activism: The Most Powerful Force for Change
While legal battles and media reform are essential, MacLean stresses that real change happens when people mobilize at the grassroots level. Historically, every major social movement—from civil rights to labor rights—has succeeded not because of politicians, but because of public pressure and organized activism.
Effective grassroots strategies include:
- Building strong local networks to resist undemocratic policies at the state level.
- Engaging in voter education and turnout efforts to counteract suppression tactics.
- Supporting progressive candidates and policies that prioritize democracy over corporate interests.
- Amplifying the voices of marginalized communities who are most impacted by these policies.
MacLean also highlights the role of blue states in protecting democracy nationwide. By leveraging their legal and economic power, progressive states can challenge federal overreach and provide resources for activists in red and purple states, where political suppression is most aggressive.
Why Resistance Matters Now More Than Ever
MacLean’s key message is clear: democracy is not self-sustaining—it requires constant vigilance and action. If the radical right succeeds in its long-term goal of calling a Constitutional Convention, the fundamental principles of American governance could be rewritten to permanently entrench minority rule and dismantle essential public services.
However, she is also optimistic that there is still time to fight back. By staying informed, resisting disinformation, engaging in legal battles, and mobilizing at the grassroots level, citizens can disrupt the radical right’s plans and restore democratic protections.
A Call to Action
MacLean urges Americans not to fall into despair or complacency. Instead, she calls on people to:
- Educate themselves and others about the real threats facing democracy.
- Join grassroots organizations focused on voting rights, economic justice, and legal advocacy.
- Support independent journalism and reject misleading corporate media narratives.
- Hold elected officials accountable and demand real action to counter anti-democratic forces.
As MacLean warns: “It’s not dark yet, but it’s getting there.” The future of American democracy depends on what we do now. It’s time to fight back.
About America at a Crossroads
Since April 2020, America at a Crossroads has produced weekly virtual programs on topics related to the preservation of our democracy, voting rights, freedom of the press, and a wide array of civil rights, including abortion rights, free speech, and free press. America at a Crossroads is a project of Jews United for Democracy & Justice.