What does Wikipedia say?
Fascism (/ˈfæʃɪzəm/ FASH-iz-əm) is a far-right, authoritarian, and ultranationalist political ideology and movement,[1][2][3] characterized by a dictatorial leader, centralized autocracy, militarism, forcible suppression of opposition, belief in a natural social hierarchy, subordination of individual interests for the perceived good of the nation or race, and strong regimentation of society and the economy
Authoritarian – Trump has suppressed the opinions of professionals within the government. He tries to punish his “enemies” through various means. He suspended due process and sent over 250 men to a foreign prison because they were suspected of being in a gang. No evidence of criminal activity or gang membership has been presented though multiple legal channels have requested it. It appears many were deported simply because they had tattoos with a crown. He has defied court orders on numerous occasions. He has repeatedly worked to suppress journalists.
Ultranationalist – Trump uses patriotic imagery frequently, and has called himself an unapologetic nationalist. Hugging and kissing the U.S. flag at public events. He uses the phrase “America First” and has attempted to extort favors and resources from other countries. He has eliminated aid to famine stricken regions simply to provide tax breaks for the wealthy. Gulf of America? Really?
Dictatorial Leader – Trump’s cabinet meetings are interesting to watch, as each department head begins their report by first praising Trump’s leadership (and occasionally his appearance) before giving their speech. I have only previously seen behavior like this in China. Recently many Democratic members of Congress and journalists have asked Republican members of congress a simple question “Did Russia invade Ukraine?” Not one would answer in the affirmative on camera due to fear of reprisals from Trump and Musk. This is especially notable since some Republican’s did go on camera to disagree with Trump’s claims that the won the 2020 election just a year ago. They are all afraid now.
Centralized Autocracy – recently state governments have rushed to implement Trump administration’s policies despite dubious constitutionality. Trump has also indicated that disaster relief for states will contingent of their compliance to his priorities. Update: In an executive order on Tuesday, directed the Justice Department to identify any state and local laws and regulations that hamper energy development and stop their enforcement. Democratic governors have pledged to fight back.
Militarism – Trump insisted on the first military parade in U.S. history during his first term and a new one to celebrate his 79th birthday. Praise the great leader. He has also praised authoritarian leaders around the world. Especially those who use military force on domestic “enemies”. He has also used and threatened to use military force for domestic issues here in America.
Forcible suppression of opposition – Mass deportations, removal of journalists he deems unkind to him from the press pool, intimidation of both universities and legal firms. Firings and threatened legal proceedings against political opponents are common. Weaponization of the Department of Justice to pursue political rivals.
Belief in a natural social hierarchy – Recently the Naval library removed both the autobiography of Jackie Robinson and writings from Martin Luther King. Add to that his desire to remove all elements of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as well as support for reducing programs to address poverty and I think we have this one wrapped up.
Subordination of individual interests for the perceived good of the nation or race – Elimination of any acceptance for transsexuals, the elimination of legal abortion and the attempts to restrict birth control seems like it fits well. Especially Musk’s strange focus on compelling women to have more children, seems like it fits even more. Trump’s lack of concern for Americans having to bare the brunt of his tariffs.
Strong regimentation of society – Elimination of dissenting beliefs, support for Christian Nationalistic ideology. Eliminate basic rights of women. Tough “Law and order” stance. Check
And the economy – How’s your 401K doing? Cryptocurrency is now money?
Yep. It all seems to check out. The issue people take, is much like the issue they take with perhaps being called racist. Most of the people offended by the words don’t want admit the words do apply to them, because they know the words indicate something wrong. Rather than look at themselves and ask if they themselves are racist, or look at Trump and ask, “Is he a fascist?” they simply take offense. Perhaps they should ask those questions and hold off on the offense.
I certainly wouldn’t compare Trump to somebody like Hitler. Hitler was smarter, and hid his narcissism by emphasizing national identity and pretending to be Socialist, because back then Socialism was considered non-threatening. Germany of course, stayed Capitalist, enriching its lords of industry and Hitler got and held power. Trump simply wants the respect of his peer group (the ultra wealthy) and by enriching them he will get, and has gotten, a kind of false fealty. But I don’t think he’s smart enough to seal the deal, so to speak. In the end they, and his fawning masses. Will begin to turn. Not all of them, but hopefully enough.