Why the Trump administration’s comparison of antifa to violent terrorist groups doesn’t track

By: Art Jipson, University of Dayton

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: October 28, 2025

Words: 1,102

Last Updated: 4 weeks ago

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By Art Jipson, University of Dayton

When Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem compared antifa to the transnational criminal group MS-13, Hamas and the Islamic State group in October 2025, she equated a nonhierarchical, loosely organized movement of antifascist activists with some of the world’s most violent and organized militant groups.

“Antifa is just as dangerous,” she said.

It’s a sweeping claim that ignores crucial distinctions in ideology, organization and scope. Comparing …

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