Steve Bannon Echoes Trump’s "Fight, Fight, Fight" Rhetoric at CPAC, Calls for Trump’s Return in 2028
Washington, D.C. – In an incendiary speech at the Conservative Political Action Conference (CPAC) on Friday, February 21, far-right ideologue Steve Bannon channeled former President Donald Trump’s divisive rhetoric, declaring that the only path to victory for conservatives is unwavering resistance and the return of Trump in 2028.
"We Will Not Retreat, Surrender, or Abandon": Bannon’s Call to Arms
"The only way they win is if we retreat, but we will not retreat, we will not surrender, we will not abandon," Bannon thundered to a cheering crowd. He echoed Trump’s signature slogan, "Make America Great Again," and urged attendees to chant it along with him. "The future of America is MAGA. We want Trump in 2028," he declared.
Trumpian Gestures and Language
Bannon invoked Trump’s words after the January 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, urging his audience to "Fight, fight, fight!" He raised his arm in a gesture reminiscent of Trump’s own rallies, drawing applause from his supporters. "Amen," he affirmed.
International Attendance and French Right-Wing Figures Present
CPAC draws conservative attendees from around the world, and 2023 was no exception. Several French right-wing figures were present, including Sarah Knafo, a member of the European Parliament for the Reconquête party, and Jordan Bardella, president of the Patriots of Europe group. However, Marine Le Pen, leader of the National Rally, canceled her scheduled speech on Friday.
Divisive and Inflammatory Rhetoric
Bannon’s speech was met with widespread condemnation from critics who denounced his divisive and inflammatory language. They argued that his calls for unwavering resistance and Trump’s return were a dangerous echo of the rhetoric that led to the January 6 attack.
Continued Polarization in American Politics
CPAC and Bannon’s speech are a reflection of the ongoing polarization in American politics. The conference has become a gathering place for conservatives who feel marginalized and threatened by liberal policies and values. Bannon’s rhetoric further exacerbates these divisions, fueling the narrative of a conservative "them against us" mentality.
Concerns About the Future of Democracy
Observers express concerns about the future of American democracy in light of such incendiary rhetoric. They argue that Bannon’s call for resistance and Trump’s return undermine the rule of law and democratic institutions. The continued use of Trumpian language and tactics suggests that the divisions that plagued the Trump presidency are far from over.
Conclusion
Steve Bannon’s speech at CPAC was a stark reminder of the deep divisions and inflammatory rhetoric that continue to plague American politics. His calls for resistance and the return of Donald Trump echo the dangerous language that led to the January 6 attack. Such rhetoric undermines the rule of law, fuels division, and raises concerns about the future of American democracy.
