When the needle swung to Trump on that fateful night in November 2016 I saw three possible futures for our former Democracy:
A) The Russian Model: A fascist ethno-state run under the absolute authority of a “strong leader”, modeled on Vladimir Putin. If you are obedient you can enjoy reasonable quality of life and prosperity. If you step out of line, you end up in jail, or disappear. This is obviously the future Trump was running on and the America the Republican Senate and Judiciary is determined to give him. This is what his supporters voted for and what too many on the other side considered not a big deal. This is attainable if the population opposing him are relatively compliant.
B) The Syrian model: The Russian model but the population is not compliant with the Leader. Civil war, chaos and mass murder.
C) The Somalian Model: Law and order devolves to the local level, or even the individual. This is the preferred state of things for the far right, the libertarian “patriot” militia movement. And the philosophy espoused by the militia supporting Bundyite who now controls our Public Lands, William “Perry” Pendley.
William Pendley (the Bundyite who now controls our Public Lands...but her emails) recently wrote an op ed proclaiming the Constitutional Sheriff the highest law of the land and designating that Federal Rangers (you know, the people he once called “Nazi’s” who now work under him) should defer to the county Sheriff.
Coming soon. A militia takes over Public Lands and when (if) confronted by Federal law enforcement say “your boss says you need to back down”.
It looks more and more like we may see not just one future America model predominate but 2, or even all 3. A breakup of the country.
Regardless, it looks like repression or violence for the West.
If you have some time over the Holidays, get out and enjoy your Public Lands while you still can. Next year, maybe not.
And oh, if you happen to see a Park, Forest Ranger, a BLM agent or some other federal employee, thank them for their service. What was once a dream job enjoying the outdoors and serving the public has become no less than combat duty. Their lives are in danger. A danger fomented by their very employer.
Happy Holidays.