The Alabama House Republican Caucus unanimously approved a resolution Monday demanding the federal government classify Antifa-affiliated groups as a terrorist organization.
Antifa, short for “anti-fascist,” is a collection of far-left-leaning militant groups that oppose what they believe are fascist, racist, or otherwise right-wing extremists, according to the Center for Strategic International Studies.
The resolution, introduced by State Rep. Chip Brown (R-Hollinger’s Island) urges the U.S. government to equate Antifa and its affiliates with international terrorist organizations such as ISIS and al-Qaeda.
Brown said these groups, which he characterized as radical liberal organizations, are engaging in activities such as rioting, violence, arson, and intimidation to further their political agenda.
“Antifa and its affiliates are the very definition of domestic terrorists,” Brown said. “It is time for the federal government to classify and treat them the same as ISIS, al-Qaeda, and other organizations that utilize the same violent tactics.”
Included in the resolution are incidents such as the intimidation and physical assault of journalist Andy Ngo by Antifa-affiliated protesters, the widespread doxing of ICE employees, and the shutting down of the ICE office in Portland, Ore., due to Antifa-led threats and occupation.
House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen (R-Hartselle) said “D.C. Democrats and the liberals who control the mainstream media often portray Antifa as a group of mischievous children engaging in pranks rather than the violent and destructive organized effort that it is.
“Because of their history and the danger they pose, the Alabama House Republican Caucus feels strongly that Joe Biden, Congress, and the U.S. Justice Department must take steps to officially classify Antifa and its adherents as domestic terrorist organizations.”
The Alabama House Republican Caucus will send copies of the resolution to the White House, Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, and the Alabama congressional delegation.
Grayson Everett is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You can follow him on Twitter @Grayson270 for coverage of the 2023 legislative session.
