Trump's Antifa Designation Sparks Debate: What Liberals Get Wrong About Domestic Terror Label

Trump's Executive Order on Antifa: What Liberals Get Wrong President Donald Trump signed an executive order on September 25, 2025, designating antifa as a domestic terror organization. The move has sparked controversy, with some liberals arguing that the designation is moot because antifa is merely an idea and not a concrete entity. According to Matthew Whitley, a writer and co-editor of a radical literary imprint, the reaction from progressives and liberal media has been misguided. "The repression is to be expected," Whitley said in an interview. "However, opponents of MAGA have embraced a dangerous narrative: The antifa designation is moot because there is, simply, nothing to designate." Whitley's comments reflect concerns that the executive order could be used as a pretext for targeting left-wing groups and individuals who oppose Trump's policies. Critics argue that the order lacks clear definitions and criteria for what constitutes an antifa organization or individual. The background of the issue dates back several years, with Trump repeatedly expressing his disdain for antifa and its perceived role in protests and demonstrations against his administration. In 2025, he issued a directive calling on his government to pursue antifa, which some saw as a precursor to the executive order. Supporters of the executive order argue that it is necessary to combat what they see as a growing threat from left-wing extremism. "We cannot allow radical groups like antifa to continue to terrorize our communities," said a White House spokesperson. "This executive order sends a clear message: we will not tolerate violence and intimidation from any group or individual." However, opponents of the order point out that it may have unintended consequences, such as chilling free speech and associational rights. "The executive order is a thinly veiled attempt to silence dissent and opposition to Trump's policies," said a spokesperson for the American Civil Liberties Union. As the debate continues, it remains unclear what specific actions the administration will take under the executive order. The Department of Justice has announced plans to establish a task force to investigate and prosecute individuals and groups deemed to be affiliated with antifa. The controversy surrounding the executive order highlights the ongoing tensions between Trump's administration and left-wing groups. While some see the move as a necessary step to combat extremism, others view it as an attempt to suppress dissent and opposition to Trump's policies. Background: Antifa is a loose network of anti-fascist activists who have been involved in protests and demonstrations against far-right groups. The term "antifa" is often used to describe a range of left-wing ideologies, from anarchism to socialism. Trump has repeatedly criticized antifa, calling it a "terror organization." Additional Perspectives: Some experts argue that the executive order could have significant implications for free speech and associational rights. Others see the move as a necessary step to combat what they view as a growing threat from left-wing extremism. Current Status: The Department of Justice has announced plans to establish a task force to investigate and prosecute individuals and groups deemed to be affiliated with antifa. The executive order remains in effect, pending further developments. *Reporting by Theintercept.*