"Don't Be a Sucker" - Applying History to the Modern MAGA Movement

"Don't Be a Sucker" - Applying History to the Modern MAGA MovementA Call to Action Against Division, Bigotry and Political CultsEpisode: 162Date: 260614.3I. Sports & Health UpdatesYergz casually predicts the Carolina Hurricanes will win the Stanley Cup.He mentions Mitch McConnell's recent hospitalization and comments on Donald Trump's appearance at a UFC event, criticizing the "blinding" presence of his plane.II. The Importance of Historical ContextYergz praises a recent video by Robert Reich, former Secretary of Labor, which draws parallels between current political rhetoric and past historical events.He emphasizes the importance of looking back at history, specifically the 1940s and 1950s, to understand the dangers of fascism.III. A Message from 1947: "Don't Be a Sucker"Yergz plays a significant portion of the 1947 anti-fascist short film, "Don't Be a Sucker," produced by the U.S. Department of War.The clip highlights the dangers of prejudice, division, and the slow erosion of rights, warning against groups that seek to divide Americans.Yergz pauses the clip to emphasize the phrase "American American" and challenges the audience to define what that actually means, noting that the only true Americans are Native Americans.IV. The Threat of Fascism and the MAGA MovementYergz resumes the clip, which details the historical rise of Nazi Germany and how Hitler used "practical weapons" to divide the nation.He compares the rhetoric in the 1947 film to the current political climate, directly accusing the MAGA movement and Donald Trump of using fascist tactics.He calls out politicians like Ted Cruz, referencing a specific instance where Cruz refused to stand up to Trump after Trump insulted his wife.V. The Call to Action: Stand TogetherYergz passionately argues that the true "enemy" is not the opposing political party or different demographic groups, but rather the politicians and individuals who try to divide the country.He reiterates that "MAGA" is not a political movement, but a cult, and that its actions are not conservative, Christian, or patriotic.He challenges listeners to speak up, use their platforms, and fight against bigotry and division.VI. Personal Updates & OutroYergz provides a brief update on Matrix, mentioning that he has been struggling but is resting.He announces he will be taking the next few days off to care for Matrix.He wishes his mother a happy 75th birthday.The segment ends with plugs for his affiliated creators, including Jeff Klein, Bradley Schlegel, and Phil Repko, before the show's outro audio plays.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/up-the-middle-politics-for-the-rest-of-us--7030715/support.Thank you for tuning in to Up The Middle. We started this show because we believe the best solutions are found when we actually hear both sides, and we want to hear from you. What did you think of today's topics? Send us an email at [email protected]. If you know someone who is burnt out on the partisan shouting matches, share this episode with them. Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss a breakdown. Thanks for getting off the porch and running with the big dogs! We'll see you next week on Up The Middle!For more information, please visit:www.Mastiff.MediaTo advertise with use, please write to:[email protected] The Yerger Group