Trump Designates Antifa as Domestic Terrorist Organization in Controversial Executive Order

Trump Labels Antifa as 'Domestic Terrorist Organization' Washington D.C., September 23, 2025 - In a move that has sparked intense debate, US President Donald Trump signed an executive order on Monday designating the left-wing Antifa movement as a "domestic terrorist organization." The announcement comes in the wake of the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. According to the order, Antifa was labeled a "domestic terrorist organization" due to its alleged involvement in a "pattern of political violence designed to suppress lawful political activity and obstruct the rule of law." Trump's order directs federal agencies to investigate and dismantle the "militarist, anarchist enterprise that explicitly calls for the overthrow of the United States Government." The White House stated that US authorities can now act against "any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa, or for which Antifa or any person claiming to act on behalf of Antifa provided material support." The order also authorizes federal agencies to seize assets and disrupt financial networks associated with the group. Antifa, short for anti-fascism or anti-fascist, has its roots in early 1930s Germany, where socialist "anti-fa" groups opposed Adolf Hitler's Nazi regime. Today, Antifa is a loose network of far-left activists who engage in protests and demonstrations against perceived fascist and nationalist ideologies. "We are not surprised by this move," said Mark Bray, an associate professor at Dartmouth College and author of the book 'Antifa: The Anti-Fascist Handbook.' "The Trump administration has been trying to demonize Antifa for years. This executive order is a clear attempt to suppress dissent and silence marginalized voices." However, some conservatives have welcomed the move as a necessary step to combat what they see as a growing threat of domestic terrorism. "This is a long-overdue recognition of the danger posed by Antifa," said Charlie Kirk, founder of Turning Point USA. "Their violent tactics and ideology are a clear threat to our democracy, and it's about time we take action." The executive order has sparked concerns among civil liberties groups, who fear that it may lead to increased surveillance and repression of peaceful protests. "This is a slippery slope," said ACLU Executive Director Anthony D. Romero. "Labeling a group as a 'domestic terrorist organization' can have serious consequences for individuals who associate with or support the group, even if they don't engage in violent activities." The impact of this executive order remains to be seen, but it has already sparked intense debate and opposition from various quarters. Background: Antifa has been involved in several high-profile protests and demonstrations across the United States, including clashes with white nationalist groups. The group's ideology emphasizes direct action and confrontation as a means to challenge perceived fascist and nationalist ideologies. Additional Perspectives: Some critics argue that Trump's executive order is an attempt to distract from his administration's handling of issues such as police brutality and racial inequality. "This move is nothing but a smokescreen," said Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY). "The real issue here is the systemic racism and oppression that exists in our country, not some made-up 'domestic terrorist organization'." Current Status: The executive order has been met with widespread criticism from civil liberties groups and some lawmakers. The impact of this move remains to be seen, but it has already sparked intense debate and opposition. As the situation unfolds, one thing is clear: the designation of Antifa as a "domestic terrorist organization" will have far-reaching consequences for individuals and groups associated with the movement. *Reporting by Dw.*