A contested process

“Before the establishment of a fascist dictatorship, bourgeois governments usually pass through a number of preliminary stages and adopt a number of reactionary measures which directly facilitate the accession to power of fascism. Whoever does not fight the reactionary measures of the bourgeoisie and the growth of fascism at these preparatory stages is not in a position to prevent the victory of fascism, but, on the contrary, facilitates that victory.” (Georgi Dimitrov, United Front against War and Fascism)

Contrary to what some think, Trump’s victory in the recent election isn’t tantamount to the election of a fascist or fascist like government. It may well evolve in that direction, but as Dimitrov makes clear, the establishment of such a government isn’t a foregone conclusion. Indeed, it will be a contested process between competing and unstable cross class political coalitions with the advantage in the near term lying with the coalition headed by Trump and MAGA.