US President Donald Trump launched a fierce attack on the Democratic Party, accusing it of being influenced by “atheist communists” and warning that it represents the greatest threat to the United States in 250 years.
Speaking at the Faith & Freedom Coalition conference in Washington, Trump linked his remarks to the recent victories of self-described Democratic Socialists in New York primary elections, arguing that the Democratic Party is moving dangerously toward the far left.
In a sarcastic tone, he said he could become “the greatest communist in history”, adding: “From today, no one will pay rent. Anyone who wants a house can simply choose one. Everyone will get free food.” His comments were aimed at mocking proposals to expand social welfare policies and introduce rent controls.
Trump went on to describe his political opponents as “animals” and claimed that communism is “a cancer spreading across the country”.
“They will shut down your churches. They will kill your people. That is what they do. They want to put an end to religion,” he told the conservative audience.
The US president also referred to political assassinations, claiming that “communists often resort to murder”. He made the remarks from the same Washington hotel where, earlier this year, an armed man was arrested on accusations that he was planning to assassinate him.
The latest attack forms part of Trump’s strategy ahead of November’s midterm elections, as he seeks to portray Democrats as an extreme political force.
Political analysts, however, note that democratic socialism, supported by some Democratic candidates, differs substantially from communism. While it advocates expanded social benefits and a greater role for the state, it does not call for the abolition of the capitalist system.
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