Jonathan Rauch, writing for The Atlantic (gift link; Apple News+), on calling Donald Trump “fascist”:

Until recently, I resisted using the F-word to describe President Trump. For one thing, there were too many elements of classical fascism that didn’t seem to fit. For another, the term has been overused to the point of meaninglessness, especially by left-leaning types who call you a fascist if you oppose abortion or affirmative action. For yet another, the term is hazily defined, even by its adherents. From the beginning, fascism has been an incoherent doctrine, and even today scholars can’t agree on its definition. Italy’s original version differed from Germany’s, which differed from Spain’s, which differed from Japan’s.

But now:

When the facts change, I change my mind. Recent events have brought Trump’s governing style into sharper focus. Fascist best describes it, and reluctance to use the term has now become perverse. That is not because of any one or two things he and his administration have done but because of the totality. Fascism is not a territory with clearly marked boundaries but a constellation of characteristics. When you view the stars together, the constellation plainly appears.

Rauch hits every one of the fascism branches on his way to this realization: demolition of norms, glorification of violence, police-state tactics, undermining elections, attacks on news media, leader aggrandizement, alternative facts, and a dozen more.

I understand you’re supposed to be welcoming when someone finally comes around to seeing things your way, rather than sarcastically declaiming “No shit, Sherlock.”

So, welcome, Mr. Rauch. Those of us who’ve been calling Trump and his regime “fascist” for nearly ten years are glad you’re here.