By Don Scott.
MAGA conservatives toss around words like “communist” and “Marxist” the same way they fling “woke,” “DEI,” or “patriot.” It’s either projection — sticking these labels on political opponents — or co-opting them to twist meaning. In a recent Times opinion under the curious byline “Rick Dime,” the writer invoked “neo-Marxist” and “communism” in yet another attack on Democrats, all while hypocritically bemoaning “name-calling.” These terms are fearmongering insults better suited for Fox News, where lies cost $788 million, or Newsmax, where lies cost $67 million.
MAGAs love to call their fellow Americans “communists.” But step back, and the irony is clear. When communism was put into practice in the 20th century, it was known for:
• One-party control branding opponents as illegitimate.
• Suppression of dissent and attacks on the free press.
• Consolidation of power into a single leader’s hands.
• Personality cults demanding loyalty to the leader over country.
Sound familiar? These are today’s MAGA tactics. From silencing critics and undermining the press, to loyalty tests and attempts to concentrate presidential power under Project 2025, MAGA is borrowing pages straight from the authoritarian playbook.
We’ve seen the same locally — demeaning journalists as enemies of the people, and the Fountain Hills Town Council removing the Times’ longstanding media table in a symbolic subversion of press access. When a current councilman recently shared to social media a post from a right-wing commentator mocking the “Arizona Repugnant” for cutting journalists, Gerry Friedel quipped: “How about The Depressing Times next.” Another broadside at our local paper.
When MAGA zealots throw around the word “communism,” remember, it’s not a description of their opponents. It’s a projection of their own behavior. The irony is that MAGA accuses others of “communism” while embracing authoritarian tactics that mirror the very regimes they claim to despise.
Have you no sense of decency, sir?
