Fact check: What role did fascist ideologies play in shaping the 2024 US presidential election?

1. Summary of the results

The analyses provided suggest that fascist ideologies may have played a role in shaping the 2024 US presidential election, with some experts drawing parallels between Trump's rhetoric and that of fascist leaders like Hitler and Mussolini ^[1]. Historian Ruth Ben-Ghiat argues that Trump's rhetoric is reminiscent of fascist leaders, and that his supporters are being conditioned to accept violence and authoritarianism ^[2]. Other sources note that while the US is not on the brink of fascism, there are troubling similarities between the social and economic conditions that led to the rise of fascist movements in Europe and those currently present in the US ^[3]. The definition of fascism and its application to Donald Trump is debated among experts, with some arguing that Trump's actions and rhetoric align with fascist ideologies, while others argue that the term is being used too loosely ^[4]. Some sources provide historical context for the term fascism in the US, citing examples of past presidents being labeled as fascists, and argue that the term has become watered down to simply mean 'someone you don't like' ^[5]. The use of fascist terminology became a central framing device in the 2024 race, with Vice President Harris publicly calling Trump a fascist, and experts linking Trump's rhetoric and actions to classic fascist traits ^[4]. The overall assessment is that fascist ideologies were a factor in the 2024 US presidential election, but the extent and accuracy of this label are subject to debate.

2. Missing context/alternative viewpoints

Some sources note that the term fascism has been used to describe past presidents, and that it has become a term used to describe someone you don't like, rather than a specific ideology ^[5]. This lack of clarity around the definition of fascism may contribute to confusion and polarization around the issue. Additionally, some sources highlight the importance of historical context in understanding the rise of fascist movements, and note that while there are similarities between the US and Europe, there are also significant differences ^[3]. The role of economic instability, social upheaval, and the appeal of strongman leaders in contributing to fascist ideologies is also noted ^[3]. Alternative viewpoints, such as the idea that Trump's brand of authoritarianism is a mainstream ideology that threatens democracy, are also presented ^[6]. The use of fascist terminology as a framing device in the 2024 race is also highlighted, with some sources arguing that it amplified partisan conflict and influenced voter attitudes ^[7].

3. Potential misinformation/bias in the original statement

The original statement asks about the role of fascist ideologies in shaping the 2024 US presidential election, but does not provide a clear definition of fascism. This lack of clarity may contribute to misinformation and bias, as different sources have different understandings of what constitutes fascist ideologies ^[4]. Some sources may be biased towards a particular political perspective, such as the opinion piece that argues the election resulted in a "fascist" president ^[6]. The use of emotive language, such as labeling someone as a fascist, can also contribute to polarization and misinformation ^{[4] [7]}. The sources that benefit from this framing are those who oppose Trump and his policies, as well as those who seek to highlight the dangers of authoritarianism and the erosion of democracy ^{[1] [6]}. On the other hand, those who support Trump and his policies may be negatively impacted by this framing, as it may be seen as an attempt to delegitimize their views ^[5].