April 1, 2020 — Many emergency room workers remove their clothes as soon as they get home — some before they even enter. Does that mean you should worry about COVID-19 transmission from your own clothing, towels, and other textiles?
While researchers found that the virus can remain on some surfaces for up to 72 hours, the study didn’t include fabric. “So far, evidence suggests that it’s harder to catch the virus from a soft surface (such as fabric) than it is from frequently touched hard surfaces like elevator buttons or door handles,” wrote Lisa Maragakis, MD, senior director of infection prevention at the Johns Hopkins Health System.
for the complete article: webmd.com/lung/news/20200401
Upton Sinclair published The Jungle in 1906, the novel became an instant sensation, exposing the horrifying conditions in America’s meat-processing industry. With its stomach-turning depictions of the stockyards and slaughterhouses, the book lit a new fire under the pure food movement and inspired swift passage of landmark food safety laws.
Two years earlier, in the fall of 1904, Sinclair had boarded a train to Chicago in search of material for his Great American Novel. For seven weeks, the 26-year-old writer and devout socialist investigated the dangerous and oppressive working conditions endured by what he called “the wage slaves of the Beef Trust.” Donning grimy clothes and carrying a dinner pail to sneak into Chicago’s “Packingtown,” a dense complex of stockyards, feed lots, slaughterhouses and meat-packing plants, Sinclair was horrified by what he saw.
Titled The Jungle as a metaphor for capitalism, Sinclair’s novel originally appeared in monthly installments between February and November 1905 in the socialist newspaper Appeal to Reason. It tells the story of an idealistic Lithuanian immigrant working for a fictional meat-processing company who loses his family, job, home and health in a succession of calamities before finding hope in socialism.
The Jungle had a limited audience at first, but it became a bestselling sensation when Doubleday, Page & Company published a revised version in February 1906. It sold more than 150,000 copies in its first year.
Much as Uncle Tom’s Cabin had influenced the national conversation about slavery, Sinclair hoped his epic would spark outrage about “wage slavery” and promote socialism as a solution. The Jungle did shock the American public and prompt legislative change—but not in the way he wanted.
In this post, I’ll walk through the 11 pillars of fascism — as defined by historians and political theorists — and provide concrete proof points that show how each one is manifesting under the Trump administration.
These are not hypotheticals. These are happening now.
Let’s get into it.
1. Authoritarianism: Centralized Power and Suppression of Dissent
Fascist Pattern: Consolidation of power by a single leader or ruling party, often accompanied by the suppression of opposition and the erosion of checks and balances.
Proof Points:
Retaliation Against Legal Professionals: The Trump administration has targeted law firms representing political opponents, revoking security clearances and initiating investigations, thereby undermining the independence of the legal system.1
Utilization of the Alien Enemies Act: The administration invoked this rarely used act to deport individuals without due process, exemplifying authoritarian overreach.2
Project 2025: A comprehensive plan by The Heritage Foundation aiming to consolidate executive power and replace civil servants with loyalists, effectively dismantling the administrative state.3
2. Ultra-nationalism: Elevating the Nation Above All
Fascist Pattern: Promoting a sense of national superiority, often at the expense of marginalized groups and international cooperation.
Proof Points:
“America First” Policies: The administration’s rhetoric and policies prioritize national interests, leading to strained international relations and the alienation of allies.
Immigration Crackdowns: Aggressive deportation strategies, including the deportation of individuals to countries where they face persecution, reflect a disregard for international human rights norms.
3. Militarism and Violence: Glorification of Strength and Force
Fascist Pattern: Emphasizing military power and the use of violence to achieve political ends.
Proof Points:
Deployment of Federal Forces Against Protesters: The use of federal agencies to suppress domestic protests demonstrates a militaristic approach to civil dissent.
Advocacy for Harsh Law Enforcement Measures: Endorsements of aggressive policing tactics and the pardoning of officials convicted of violent actions signal an acceptance of violence within governance.
4. Scapegoating and Propaganda: Blaming ‘The Other’
Fascist Pattern: Attributing national problems to specific groups, often minorities, to divert attention from governmental shortcomings.
Proof Points:
Targeting of Immigrants: Labeling migrants as criminals or terrorists without substantial evidence, leading to policies like mass deportations to dangerous environments.4
Discrediting of Media Outlets: Frequent accusations of “fake news” aimed at undermining the credibility of independent journalism.
5. Anti-democracy and Anti-liberalism: Undermining Democratic Institutions
Fascist Pattern: Erosion of democratic norms and institutions, often through the delegitimization of electoral processes and the judiciary.
Proof Points:
Challenging Election Legitimacy: Persistent claims of electoral fraud without evidence, aiming to erode public trust in democratic processes.
Defiance of Court Orders: Ignoring or circumventing judicial rulings, such as the refusal to comply with orders to return wrongfully deported individuals.5
6. Cult of Personality: Elevating the Leader
Fascist Pattern: Creating an idealized and heroic image of the leader, often demanding unwavering loyalty.
Proof Points:
Personalization of Political Power: The leader’s name and image are prominently used in political campaigns and government communications, emphasizing personal loyalty over institutional allegiance.
Attacks on Critics: Public denunciations and threats against political opponents, former allies, and dissenting voices within the administration.6
7. Control of Information: Censorship and Manipulation
Fascist Pattern: Manipulating or controlling media and information to suppress dissent and promote the regime’s narrative.
Proof Points:
Defunding Independent Media: Cutting funds to organizations like Radio Free Asia and Voice of America, jeopardizing journalistic independence.7
Surveillance of Journalists: Implementing measures that intimidate and suppress investigative journalism.
8. Suppression of Unions and Dissent: Silencing Opposition
Fascist Pattern: Cracking down on labor movements and any form of organized opposition.
Proof Points:
Targeting Academic Institutions: Freezing federal funds to universities like Cornell and Northwestern under the guise of addressing campus protests, thereby stifling academic freedom.8
Executive Orders Against Law Firms: Issuing directives that penalize law firms perceived as oppositional, undermining the right to legal representation.9
Fascist Pattern: Economic power is consolidated among favored corporations that align with the state, undermining fair competition.
Proof Points:
Preferential Treatment for Allies: The administration has implemented policies that benefit certain businesses, often those with political connections, while sidelining competitors.
Tariff Policies Impacting Small Businesses: The imposition of tariffs under the guise of national security has disproportionately affected small businesses, while larger corporations with government ties have navigated these challenges more effectively.10
10. Sexism and Gender Control: Enforcing Traditional Roles
Fascist Pattern: Traditional gender roles are aggressively enforced, with policies that marginalize women and LGBTQ+ individuals.
Proof Points:
Executive Orders Limiting Gender Recognition: The administration has issued orders defining sex strictly as male or female based on biological characteristics, effectively erasing recognition of transgender and non-binary identities.11
Restrictions on Gender-Affirming Care: Policies have been enacted to limit or prohibit gender-affirming care, particularly for minors, framing such care as harmful despite medical consensus on its benefits.12
11. Fear as a Tool: Maintaining Control Through Anxiety
Fascist Pattern: A constant state of crisis is maintained to justify authoritarian measures and suppress dissent.
Proof Points:
Use of Emergency Powers for Trade Policies: The administration has invoked emergency powers to implement trade policies, such as tariffs, under the pretext of national security threats, fostering a climate of fear and uncertainty.13
Rhetoric Targeting Marginalized Groups: Public statements and policies have often portrayed immigrants and LGBTQ+ individuals as threats to societal values, fueling fear and justifying restrictive measures.14
These examples, which don’t include any presidential actions, illustrate a troubling alignment with the core aspects of fascism.
It’s imperative to remain vigilant and advocate for democratic principles and human rights.
LEASA Industries Co. Inc. of Miami, FL, has recalled its alfalfa sprouts because of possible contamination with E. coli. The recall was not posted on the Food and Drug Administration’
** Update: Ice cream recalled because of metal piecesStewart’s Shops Corp. of Saratoga Springs, NY is recalling two flavors, Heavenly Medley and Vanilla-Chocolate-Strawberry, of half-gallon ice cream because of the potential presence of metal.
** Saint Francis Apizza LLC Issues a Voluntary Recall of its Frozen Pizzas for Missing Sub Ingredients on the Label for Soy, Which Includes Soybean Oil and Soy Lecithin, an Allergen. here have been no reports of illness involving the products addressed in this recall, however, people who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to soy run the risk of a serious or lifethreatening allergic reaction if they consume these products. Individuals exhibiting signs or symptoms of an allergic reaction should contact a physician immediately.
All products should be discarded or returned to Saint Francis Apizza LLC for a full refund.
Customers with any questions or concerns should contact Alex Plattner at 971.221.7086.
** Stewart’s Shop Corp. Recalls Heavenly Medley and Vanilla-Chocolate-Strawberry Due to Possible Foreign Object. Stewart’s Shops Corp. of Saratoga Springs, NY is recalling two flavors, Heavenly Medley and Vanilla-Chocolate-Strawberry, of half-gallon ice cream due to the potential presence of metal.
The following products are subject to recall and were sold at all Stewart’s Shops locations in NY, VT, and NH between 7/17/26 and 10/2/2026: No injuries or illnesses have been reported to date in connection with this problem.
The recall was initiated after a metal object was discovered by a consumer in a half-gallon carton of ice cream. Consumer & Media Contact: Robin Cooper 518-248-0455 rcooper@stewartsshops.com
** Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A., San Carlos, Chile expands its previously initiated recalls on July 3, 2026 and September 3,2026 recall of frozen organic IQF blueberries and berry blends to include additional lots of Great Value frozen Organic Triple Berry Blend 10 OZ, Great Value frozen Organic Blueberries 10 OZ and one Lot of Trader Joe’s frozen Organic Mixed Berry Blend because of potential contamination with Escherichia coli O145:H28 (E. coli O145).
The affected products are:
Product: Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend 10 OZ (Including Strawberries, Blackberries and Blueberries), with UPC: 7874211226 Package Size: 10 oz Lot Code: 6 031 01, 6 041 01 (in front of the package) Best If Used By Date: January 31, 2028 and February 10, 2028
Product: Great Value Organic Blueberries 10 OZ, with UPC: 7874211213 Package Size: 10 oz Lot Code: 6 019 01, 6 040 01 and 6 163 01 (in front of the package) Best If Used By Date: January 19, 2028; February 9, 2028 and June 12, 2028.
Product: Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend 12 OZ with UPC: 00977654 Package Size: 12 oz Lot Code: 6 051 01 (in back of the package) Best Before Date: February 20, 2028
Consumers who have Great Value Organic Triple Berry 10 OZ with lot code 6 031 01, 6 041 01, Great Value Organic Blueberries 10 OZ with lot code 6 019 01, 6 040 01 and 6 163 01 and Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend 12 OZ with lot code 6 051 01 should not consume those products. The product should be discarded or returned to Walmart or Trader Joe’s for a full refund.Media Contact: Joshua Weiss Info.foodsafety@comfrut.com or 336-899-5612. Monday – Friday 8 AM – 6 PM EST
** Sierra Nevada Cheese Company Recalls Graziers Raw Milk Cheese Due to Possible Health Risk. At this time, the investigation has not been narrowed to a specific lot, date code, or production date. Therefore, out of an abundance of caution, Sierra Nevada Cheese Company is recalling all the Graziers Raw Milk Cheese products listed below currently in distribution. The recalled products were distributed nationwide through distributors, retailers, and direct customers. Sierra Nevada Cheese Company initiated the voluntary recall after being contacted by FDA regarding the ongoing FDA/CDC outbreak investigation. The company immediately stopped production and shipment of all Graziers Raw Milk Cheese, notified customers that purchased the affected products directly from Sierra Nevada Cheese Company, and issued notices through its website and social media. The company is cooperating with FDA and CDC as the investigation continues. Consumers with questions may contact Sierra Nevada Cheese Company at (530) 934-8662, Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, or by email at recallinfo@sierranevadacheese.com.
** Greenwich Rx Issues Voluntary Nationwide Recall of Compounded Glutathione Due to Elevated Endotoxin Levels. The glutathione was distributed to patients nationwide between June 26, 2026, and September 21, 2026.
Customers can direct questions regarding this recall to Sedgwick at (866) 552-4916 or GreenwichRx7542@sedgwick.com Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM Eastern Time. Complete and submit the report Online: www.fda.gov/medwatch/report.htm
Regular Mail or Fax: Download form www.fda.gov/MedWatch/getforms.htm or call 1-800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178.
** EAK Distribution LLC Recalls HOME GROWN Green Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli Seeds, 8 oz, Heirloom Because of Possible Health Risk. HOME GROWNGreen Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli Seeds, 8 oz, Heirloom was sold on Amazon.com to consumers nationwide between the dates of August 20th, 2026 and September 18th, 2026
HOME GROWNGreen Sprouting Calabrese Broccoli Seeds, 8 oz, Heirloom is in a cream colored pouch with the UPC code 850056627443. The top seal is embossed with the Production Lot Code of AUG172026. There have been no reported illnesses from our product to date. The recall was initiated after our seed supplier notified us that the seeds were identified as being used by a sprout grower whose finished product were part of an FDA investigation involving a multistate food borne illness outbreak. Consumers with any questions may contact EAK Distribution at 541-306-4278, Monday – Friday from 8 am – 5 pm PST.
** WinCo Foods of Boise, ID is Recalling the Following Salsa Bean Dip Trays Due to the Inclusion of Recalled Peperoncini from G.L. Mezzetta. WinCo Foods of Boise, ID is recalling the following Salsa Bean Dip Trays due to the inclusion of recalled peperoncini from G.L. Mezzetta.
WinCo Foods Salsa Bean Dip Tray Express with UPC 2-67173-#####, with a net weight of 54oz.
WinCo Foods Salsa Bean Dip Tray, 16 Inch Catering Tray(by special order only) with UPC 2-67240-##### with a net weight of 104oz.
The affected peperoncini may have been used as an ingredient on the bean dip trays with “Best If Used By” dates of Aug. 14, 2026 through Sept. 25, 2026.
Product was distributed in WinCo Foods retail stores in AZ, CA, ID, MT, NV, OR, UT, and WA.
WinCo Foods was notified by G.L. Mezzetta that a single lot of their Golden Greek Peperoncini has been recalled due to potential pest inclusion due to a video from another grocery chain circulating on social media. Peperoncini are used as an ingredient in the WinCo Foods Salsa Bean Dip Trays.
WinCo Foods did not have or use any product with evidence of pests included in the jar, nor has the company received any complaints regarding potential pests or illness related to the bean dip trays to date. Consumer Contact Information: WinCo Foods Customer Service Desk Phone number: 1-800-824-1706 Website: WinCo Foods – Contact Us Online
** Frutas y Hortalizas del Sur S.A. Expands Recalls to Include Additional Lots of Great Value Frozen Organic Triple Berry Blend 10 OZ, Great Value Frozen Organic Blueberries 10 OZ and One Lot of Trader Joe’s Frozen Organic Mixed Berry Blend 12 OZ Because of Potential Contamination with E. coli O145. The recalled Great Value product was shipped to select Walmart stores in 30 states including Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Mississippi, North Carolina, North Dakota, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Wisconsin, and West Virginia, along with the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Consumers should check their freezers for the affected product. The recalled Trader Joe’s product was shipped to select Trader Joe’s stores in 26 states: Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin, along with the District of Columbia.
The affected products are:
Product: Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend 12 OZ with UPC: 00977654 Package Size: 12 oz Lot Code: 6 051 01 (in back of the package) Best Before Date: February 20, 2028
Product: Great Value Organic Triple Berry Blend 10 OZ (Including Strawberries, Blackberries and Blueberries), with UPC: 7874211226 Package Size: 10 oz Lot Code: 6 031 01, 6 041 01 (in front of the package) Best If Used By Date: January 31, 2028 and February 10, 2028
Product: Great Value Organic Blueberries 10 OZ, with UPC: 7874211213 Package Size: 10 oz Lot Code: 6 019 01, 6 040 01 and 6 163 01 (in front of the package) Best If Used By Date: January 19, 2028; February 9, 2028 and June 12, 2028. Consumers who have Great Value Organic Triple Berry 10 OZ with lot code 6 031 01, 6 041 01, Great Value Organic Blueberries 10 OZ with lot code 6 019 01, 6 040 01 and 6 163 01 and Trader Joe’s Organic Mixed Berry Blend 12 OZ with lot code 6 051 01 should not consume those products. The product should be discarded or returned to Walmart or Trader Joe’s for a full refund.
Consumers or customers with questions regarding this recall may contact:
Gias Foods of New York, NY is recalling all lot codes of bettergoods Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine, because it has the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, Listeria monocytogenes infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
The Authentic Italian Lemon Alfredo Fettuccine was distributed nationwide at Walmart stores.
If America is truly defined by universal principles — liberty, equality, autonomy — then restricting rights for Women and Black Americans undermines the very creed being invoked.
I am asking and saying:
If America is truly creedal, then the creed must apply equally — and current legal and political actions often undermine that.
Many scholars argue that the “creedal” narrative can be used to mask unequal treatment by pretending the playing field is already level.
ce suggests that it’s harder to catch the virus from a soft surface (such as fabric) than it is from frequently touched hard surfaces like elevator buttons or door handles,” wrote Lisa Maragakis, MD, senior director of infection prevention at the Johns Hopkins Health System.
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