In this episode of Freedom Over Fascism, Dr. Stephanie Gerber Wilson interviews Christopher Armitage, who discusses the concept of 'soft succession' as a means for states to combat federal overreach and preserve democracy. Armitage emphasizes the importance of anti-corruption measures, creating parallel social safety nets, and engaging in local politics to effectively resist fascism. He advocates for sustained activism and community involvement as essential strategies for change.

takeaways

• Soft succession is about empowering states to resist federal overreach.
• Anti-corruption efforts are crucial for restoring democracy.
• States can create parallel social safety nets to protect citizens.
• Engaging in local politics is vital for meaningful change.
• Activism should focus on small, sustained actions over time.
• Negotiating with the federal government can involve withholding tax revenue.
• Educating the public is the first step in activism.
• Building community and culture is essential for long-term resistance.
• Local elections are key to fighting back against fascism.
• A vision for a post-fascist future includes universal education and basic income.

titles

• Empowering States: A New Approach to Democracy
• Soft Succession: Resisting Federal Overreach

Sound Bites

• "We can't rely on the Department of Justice anymore."
• "We need to create parallel social safety nets."
• "We need to build a culture around activism."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Soft Secession and Its Importance

05:20 Empowering States Against Federal Overreach

10:14 Funding State Initiatives and Social Safety Nets

15:32 Anti-Corruption Measures and Restoring Oversight

19:41 Creating Collaborative State Solutions

23:18 Engaging with State Leaders and Public Consensus

27:03 Counterarguments and the Need for Bold Actions

29:26 The Rise of Authoritarianism

33:28 Strategies for Resistance

39:21 Activism and Community Engagement

47:51 Local Politics and Long-Term Change

49:45 Envisioning a Post-Fascist Future