Trump may designate Antifa terrorist group after Kirk killing
Photo: Donald Trump, President of the United States (Getty Images)
President Donald Trump is considering designating the far-left anti-fascist group Antifa as domestic terrorists following the recent killing of activist Charlie Kirk, according to CNN.
"It’s something I would do, yeah," President Donald Trump said when asked if he would designate Antifa as domestic terrorists.
With such a decision, the president said he intends to step up efforts against what he described as a broad network of left-wing radicals inciting violence.
Trump added that he would proceed only if he received backing from members of his cabinet and the Department of Justice.
CNN noted it is unclear what exactly Trump means, since Antifa is a loosely organized movement with no clear leader, membership list, or formal structure. Still, Trump appears determined to target left-wing groups whose activities, he claims, have led to violence.
"Antifa is terrible. There are other groups," he said in the Oval Office. "We have some pretty radical groups, and they got away with murder," he added without citing any evidence.
Accusations of racketeering
Trump also said he had discussed with Attorney General Pam Bondi the possibility of charging left-wing groups with racketeering, alleging they fund leftist agitators.
"I’ve asked Pam to look into that in terms of RICO, bringing RICO cases," he said, adding: “They should be put in jail; what they’re doing to this country is really subversive."
What is Antifa
Antifa (short for anti-fascist) is a diffuse, decentralized movement in the US with no formal organizational structure. It consists of local groups, activists, and social media networks that coordinate mainly at the community or regional level.
Its stated aim is to oppose fascism, racism, far-right movements, and neo-Nazism. Antifa often relies on direct action, protests, and counter-demonstrations, which sometimes include confrontational tactics.
Killing of Charlie Kirk
Trump’s remarks came after administration officials signaled plans to intensify efforts against what they called "coordinated leftist actions inciting violence."
The focus sharpened following last week’s killing of far-right activist Charlie Kirk.
So far, no public evidence has emerged linking the suspect to a broader network. Tyler Robinson, who was detained over the killing, remains in custody pending a mental health evaluation. He has not confessed to the crime or cooperated with investigators.
