1. No Fear
Real talk: Have you been afraid?
I have been. Afraid for the country. Afraid for democracy. Afraid for vulnerable populations. Afraid for the children of immigrants. Afraid for the kids who will get polio. Afraid for members of the military who will refuse unlawful orders.
I’ve been afraid for what is coming for Liz Cheney and Mark Milley. And also for people I know personally who aren’t as famous. I’ve been afraid for the future of The Bulwark. I’ve been afraid for myself and my family.
I’m just being real with you. These are the ghosts that visit me in the small hours.
We don’t talk about the fear much. When we do, it tends either to be in the form of venting or gallows humor. Which is why I’d like to go deep on the fear today. I want us to understand its roots and its purpose. And I want to talk about how we should respond to it. Because our response will influence everything that follows in the coming years.
So let’s start there and work backwards: Be not afraid.
Say it with me: Be. Not. Afraid.
It’s important to understand that fear is not an ancillary biproduct of Trumpism. It is a method and a mode. A goal unto itself.
Join Bulwark+ to unlock the rest
Become a paying member of The Bulwark to get access to this post and other subscriber-only content. A subscription gets you:
- Unlimited access to articles and newsletters including The Triad by JVL and Receipts by Catherine Rampell.
- Ad-free editions of our shows (with transcripts) and member-only shows like The Secret Podcast.
- Plus community chats and commenting features. Your support helps keep our work sustainable and available to those who cannot afford a membership. Cancel anytime.