What We Should Do • The Havok Journal

Domestic Violent Extremism (DVE) has become one of the most pressing security challenges facing the United States today. This form of extremism is characterized by individuals or groups engaging in violence driven by ideological beliefs, often rooted in extreme political, social, or religious views. Unlike traditional terrorism, DVE presents unique complexities, making it crucial to understand its distinct nature. The FBI’s designation of DVE as the “greatest terrorist threat” highlights the urgency of addressing this issue head-on. This essay discusses the nature of the threat posed by Domestic Violent Extremism and propose three critical actions the U.S. government should take to combat it effectively.

Over the past decade, we have witnessed a significant rise in various extremist groups within our borders. Organizations ranging from racially motivated extremists to anti-government militias underscore the multifaceted nature of this threat. Recent reports indicate a disturbing increase in violent incidents linked to both far-right and far-left extremist movements. These groups often exploit social and economic grievances to justify their actions. Tragic events like the Charlottesville rally and the January 6th Capitol insurrection serve as stark reminders of the potential for violence these groups hold.

The rise of domestic violent extremist (DVE) groups is particularly concerning. White supremacists and similar extremists were responsible for a significant majority of terrorist plots and attacks in the U.S., accounting for 67% in 2020 (CSIS 2020). Furthermore, there was a noticeable uptick in attacks and plots by anarchists, anti-fascists, and other similar extremists, which accounted for 20% of terrorist incidents in that year, up from 8% in 2019 (CSIS, 2020).

The threat from racially and ethnically motivated extremists, primarily white supremacist extremists, remains persistent and lethal. Moreover, the interconnectedness of far-left and far-right violence complicates the domestic terrorism landscape, as actions by one group often provoke retaliatory responses from the other.

The radicalization process has also become increasingly sophisticated due to the internet and social media. These platforms are critical recruitment tools, enabling extremist groups to connect with vulnerable individuals across the nation. The anonymity and vast reach of online spaces allow extremist ideologies to proliferate, targeting those who are disenfranchised or marginalized. Understanding how these narratives take root within specific communities is essential for developing effective countermeasures.

The implications of DVE extend far beyond immediate violent acts; they threaten social cohesion and public safety. Communities impacted by extremist violence endure long-term trauma, leading to divisions and societal rifts. Additionally, law enforcement faces substantial challenges in identifying and preventing potential domestic attacks. The increasing incidents of DVE strain resources and complicate the broader national security landscape, particularly in a post-9/11 environment that is often marked by fear and distrust.

What Should We Do?

The U.S. government should take several important steps to tackle this escalating threat of domestic terrorism. First and foremost, we need to improve transparency by making detailed data on terrorist attacks and plots publicly available. This data should encompass the characteristics of offenders, the tactics utilized, and specific details about the incidents. By sharing this information, policymakers can better allocate counterterrorism resources and create strategies based on real threats instead of relying on anecdotal evidence.

Next, it is crucial to establish a coordinated approach to data collection and management across federal and state agencies. Aligning efforts to standardize data across various systems will enhance the effectiveness of counterterrorism initiatives. This collaboration will ensure that law enforcement agencies at all levels have access to the critical information they need to identify and address domestic terrorism threats proactively.

We must bolster support for state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies. These agencies require enhanced resources and training to effectively detect and deter domestic terrorism before it escalates into violence. The Departments of Homeland Security, Justice, and the FBI should take a hard look at their counterterrorism training programs and make necessary improvements to ensure law enforcement personnel are fully equipped to handle domestic terrorism incidents.

Another essential area of focus is the online presence of domestic extremists. The government and private sector should collaborate actively to target individuals and groups that promote violence on digital platforms. Extremists often use social media to spread propaganda, recruit followers, and coordinate actions. Policymakers must advocate for digital platforms to take down content that supports domestic terrorism and violates their terms of service.

State and city officials should seriously consider implementing legislation that bans or restricts firearms at public demonstrations as a proactive measure to ensure public safety and maintain order during events that can quickly escalate into confrontations. Research has consistently shown that armed demonstrations are significantly more likely to turn violent compared to unarmed ones. By prohibiting firearms at these gatherings, officials can reduce the likelihood of conflicts escalating into tragic incidents of violence.

Moreover, such legislation would clearly communicate that communities prioritize peaceful expression and dialogue over intimidation and aggression. It reflects a commitment to creating an environment where citizens can exercise their rights to assemble and protest without the looming threat of armed conflict. State and local governments must explore this avenue as part of a broader strategy to address the challenges posed by domestic violent extremism, thus fostering a culture of safety and respect during public discourse.

References

As the Voice of the Veteran Community, The Havok Journal seeks to publish a variety of perspectives on a number of sensitive subjects. Unless specifically noted otherwise, nothing we publish is an official point of view of The Havok Journal or any part of the U.S. government.