Trump declares Antifa a terrorist group.
Following the assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk a week prior, President Trump has officially designated the left-wing Antifa movement as a terrorist organization.
This decision is a response to the murder of conservative podcaster and organizer Charlie Kirk during his college speaking tour. High-ranking Republicans, including Vice President J.D. Vance, have blamed “left-wing extremism” for the killing.
Trump announced the designation on Wednesday evening via his Truth Social platform, stating, “I am pleased to inform our many U.S.A. Patriots that I am designating ANTIFA, A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER, AS A MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION.”
He further stated that those who provide funding to Antifa should be “thoroughly investigated in accordance with the highest legal standards and practices.”
Antifa, short for “antifascists,” is a broad term encompassing black-clad, masked left-wing activists known for disrupting conservative demonstrations, engaging in clashes with right-wing protesters, and confrontations with law enforcement.
The movement gained prominence during the 2020 George Floyd protests. Antifa members have also faced accusations of participating in riots and carrying out attacks on conservative individuals and journalists.
Tyler Robinson, charged with Kirk’s murder, reportedly espoused left-leaning and pro-LGBTQ views, according to authorities. Prosecutors allege that Robinson confessed to the murder in text messages to his transgender partner, stating, “I had enough of his hatred. Some hate can’t be negotiated out,” shortly after the shooting.