A Familiar Pattern
The pattern of public protests and potential riots in response to political events has become a recurring theme in American politics. Notably, the left-wing rioting that erupted following George Floyd’s death in 2020 was not an isolated event. Instead, it exemplified a tactic that activists may repurpose for various causes. Recent protests supporting Hamas suggest this tactic could resurface during the 2024 election campaign if Donald Trump wins.
Preparing for Potential Unrest
Conservative leaders face the task of preparing for potential civil unrest in 2024, learning from the tumultuous events of 2020. It’s crucial to understand what might ignite riots and how to prevent them. The ongoing criminal indictments against Donald Trump, a frontrunner for the Republican nomination, add a layer of complexity. His potential conviction could lead to explosive consequences from both sides of the ideological spectrum.
The Left’s Readiness
Left-wing activists have developed a sophisticated network of NGOs, media outlets, and grassroots organizations ready to mobilize at a moment’s notice. This network is adept at switching narratives and tactics, seamlessly moving from one cause to another, all while managing to keep the activism under the guise of different social justice movements.
State Preparedness: A Proactive Approach
States, particularly those governed by conservatives, are advised to take proactive measures. This includes establishing task forces to monitor and disrupt extremist networks, enhancing legal penalties for rioting, and training the National Guard in riot control tactics. Florida’s approach under Governor Ron DeSantis, which included strict anti-riot laws and quick mobilization of the National Guard, serves as a model of effective state response.
Strategic Response to Riots
If riots do break out, conservative leaders have two primary strategies to consider:
- Ground War: Direct intervention with National Guard units to restore order, as suggested by Senator Tom Cotton during the 2020 riots.
- Air War: Managing public perception through media, framing the riots as the result of left-wing policies, and allowing local authorities to handle the situation in affected areas.
Lessons from 2020 and Beyond
The events leading up to the 2020 election demonstrated that riots could influence voter behavior, pushing them towards a candidate seen as more likely to restore peace and order. This scenario might play out again in 2024, where the handling of civil unrest could significantly impact the election results.
Looking Forward: Anticipating and Shaping the Narrative
Conservative strategists should prepare not only by fortifying legal and tactical measures but also by crafting compelling narratives to win the air war. This involves developing a rapid-response media strategy to counteract riot incitement and align public perception with conservative values of law and order.
The Imperative of Preparation
The potential for rioting in Democrat cities if Trump wins in 2024 is real. Conservative leaders must plan meticulously, ensuring readiness to both prevent and respond to unrest. The stability of society rests on the ability to maintain order, and preparing now is crucial for the wellbeing of the nation in a politically volatile climate.
