The True Catalyst of Radicalization: It’s Not the Border

Everything’s Their Fault—Except When It Isn’t

The New Orleans tragedy has left us grappling with shock, sorrow, and difficult questions about how such an act could once again happen in our country. Predictably, Trump and his acolytes wasted no time crafting a false narrative, pointing fingers at their perennial scapegoat: illegal immigration. Yet, the facts make their argument crumble. The terrorist was not an undocumented immigrant but a homegrown extremist, born and raised in Texas.

How did this happen? The answer lies not in a border crossing but in a far more insidious force: online radicalization. Platforms designed to connect us have instead become breeding grounds for division, disinformation, and extremism. Algorithms prioritize outrage over understanding, feeding individuals a steady diet of hate until it consumes them entirely.

Sure, we have issues at the border. But in Trump’s world, illegal immigration has become the scapegoat for every problem—be it crime, economic struggles, or public safety. Why face the uncomfortable truth about homegrown radicalization when it’s easier to point a finger elsewhere?

Let’s be clear: to combat this growing threat, we must address the elephant in the room—Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act. What was once a shield for innovation has allowed tech platforms to escape accountability, as their algorithms drive division, conspiracy theories, and violence. Reforms to Section 230 are no longer optional; they are essential. If we do not demand change, we’ll continue to be held hostage by profit-driven algorithms that thrive on chaos and hate.

It’s striking, isn’t it? Just a few years ago, Trump wanted to ban TikTok, citing security concerns. Now, he champions the platform as if it were a beacon of freedom. This flip-flop mirrors his broader political tactics—blaming illegal immigration when convenient, ignoring the larger, more complex issues when they don’t fit his narrative.

Slate.com

As I sit here watching the snow pile up outside my window, I can’t help but think that Trump and his followers would blame illegal immigration for this blizzard, too. After all, if you believe everything you see on social media, it’s ALL their fault—even the weather.

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