In a bold move against domestic extremism, Texas Representative Beth Van Duyne is pushing for significant legislative reform to combat the rise of violent groups like Antifa.
The “Stop Financial Underwriting of Nefarious Demonstrations and Extremist Riots” (Stop FUNDERs) Act aims to use the same robust legal framework that targets organized crime to dismantle the financing and operations of these violent factions.
In her recent statements, Van Duyne emphasized the severity of the threat posed by Antifa, describing them as terrorists who have shown a consistent pattern of violence.
She pointed to a chilling incident this past July, when Antifa militants ambushed officers at the ICE Prairieland Detention Center in Texas. According to law enforcement officials, this attack was a calculated and premeditated ambush intended to harm corrections officers.
Van Duyne stated, "Until we start treating them as the terrorists that they are, we're not taking it seriously."
The proposed legislation would categorize violent riots, funding, and organizing activities under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), which would allow federal authorities to pursue these groups on a level similar to organized crime syndicates.
This legislative push comes amidst rising public concern about the violence associated with Antifa and similar groups, particularly in the wake of heightened civil unrest across the country.
Calls for action have also been echoed by Senator Ted Cruz, who filed a companion bill in the Senate and supports a strong federal response to the increasing violence.
The Trump administration has long recognized the threat posed by Antifa, with President Trump previously designating the group as a domestic terror organization.
During a recent roundtable discussion, Trump reiterated the administration's commitment to investigating and addressing the funding behind these extremist groups. He emphasized the importance of holding those who finance such violence accountable for their role in perpetuating unrest across America.
As the conversation around public safety and law enforcement continues to evolve, Van Duyne’s proactive approach seeks to protect communities from the destructive influence of domestic terrorism, reinforcing the need for decisive action against any group that poses a threat to American safety and values.
Sources:
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