Opinion

Trump showing it can happen here

Posted March 10, 2016 12:00 am

Recent comparisons of Donald Trump and his message to that of Mussolini and the rise of 1930s fascism are not the fantasy of left-wing media frenzy.

I would urge every Illinois voter now and after the primary to read Sinclair Lewis's 1935 novel "It Can't Happen Here." Written during the real rise of fascism in Europe, it tells the story of a charismatic and power-hungry politician who gets elected President of the United States. His platform was a promise to restore the country to prosperity and greatness based on a return to traditional American values.

One of his first acts is to enact legislation which sharply curtails the civil rights of women and minorities. Does any of this sound familiar?

Following comes concentration camps, a paramilitary force, kangaroo courts and brutal elimination of any dissent.

But of course, don't worry if Trump is elected. After all, it can't happen here.

Larry Schneider

Buffalo Grove

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