Introduction
In the run-up to the 2024 U.S. presidential election, a resurgence of the “Stop the Steal” movement has been making waves. Even before Election Day, MAGA activists are making plans to challenge the legitimacy of the election results if former President Donald Trump loses to Vice President Kamala Harris. This article will explore how these activists are mobilizing, spreading rhetoric, and strategizing to disrupt the electoral process.
Revival of “Stop the Steal”
The “Stop the Steal” movement, familiar to the public from Trump’s 2020 defeat, has reappeared with new strategies to combat what its proponents claim would be a fraudulent Harris victory. Leaders like Ivan Raiklin have developed methods to challenge election results. Their plans range from encouraging protests to pressing lawmakers to prevent Congress from certifying Harris’s victory on January 6, 2025.
Growing Influence of Election Conspiracy Theories
Conspiracy theories surrounding potential election fraud are increasingly taking root among Trump’s supporters. Podcasts, sermons, and rallies circulate messages suggesting that the upcoming election is a cosmic struggle between good and evil. Some Trump supporters view Harris as a threat and believe that Trump’s loss would signify a defeat of their values.
Organized Efforts to Disrupt the Election
The 2024 election marks a shift from the more chaotic post-election efforts of 2020, with activists now better organized and more strategic. Unlike in 2020, MAGA proponents have planned in advance to contest a potential Trump loss through a variety of means.
Legal Challenges and Legislative Pressure
One primary tactic involves flooding the courts with lawsuits to contest election results. Furthermore, activists are rallying state legislators to ignore actual vote counts and simply award electoral votes to Trump. Despite changes in the law that make it harder to disrupt the certification process, some MAGA activists believe their movement is more motivated and prepared than in 2020.
Concerns from Law Enforcement
Federal agencies, including the Department of Homeland Security and FBI, have expressed worries about possible violent responses linked to election denial. Extremist rhetoric circulating on social media platforms has alarmed authorities, who fear that frustration among Trump supporters could lead to violent confrontations, similar to those seen during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot.
Baseless Claims of a “Steal” Resurface
Claims of election fraud, largely unfounded, have been reappearing on social media and are often championed by influential right-wing figures. These voices include individuals like Emerald Robinson and former Overstock CEO Patrick Byrne, who have warned of conspiracies and cyber-attacks that they believe could lead to widespread chaos.
Role of Social Media and Influencers
With large followings on social media, MAGA influencers have significant power to sway public opinion. Figures like Greg Locke, a pastor known for his inflammatory remarks, have warned followers that a Harris victory would bring irreversible change, predicting a “catastrophic storm” if she is elected.
Plans to Block Election Certification
Among the more concerning strategies is a push by some Trump supporters to have state legislatures ignore the popular vote and directly select electors for Trump. Activists like Raiklin have been promoting this approach, even finding support among certain members of Congress.
Legal and Constitutional Concerns
While MAGA activists believe that the U.S. Constitution grants state legislatures this power, legal experts disagree. The proposal would require states to revoke existing election laws, which many say is impractical and legally dubious.
Potential for Violence and Civil Unrest
Activists openly discussing the potential for violent protests following Election Day have further alarmed law enforcement. Extremist figures have openly suggested that frustration with the election process could incite violence if the outcome remains contested.
Warnings of Civil War Rhetoric
There have been growing calls for “election defense” preparations on internet forums, some linked to far-right groups. Violent messages have also surfaced on social media, contributing to fears of potential unrest. Groups once openly planning their actions have now moved discussions into private channels, making their activities more difficult for authorities to monitor.
Conclusion
As the 2024 election draws near, MAGA activists have mobilized to a new level of coordination, determined to challenge a Harris victory at every turn. The revival of the “Stop the Steal” movement, combined with violent rhetoric and strategic planning, has raised concerns among law enforcement and election officials. It remains to be seen whether the protections put in place after the 2020 election will be sufficient to maintain a peaceful and fair electoral process.
