US Warns of Rise in Right-Wing Extremism

Homeland Security: Recession is catalyst

By John Johnson, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 14, 2009 9:53 PM CDT

(Newser) – Right-wing extremist groups may be taking advantage of volatile economic times and the election of the first black president to drum up membership in the US, the Homeland Security Department says. The nine-page report, sent to police agencies nationwide, says extremism isn't limited to racist hate groups but "may include groups and individuals that are dedicated to a single-issue, such as opposition to abortion or immigration," the Washington Times reports.

The rising unemployment rate, spate of foreclosures, and debate over issues such as immigration reform and gun control may be creating a "fertile" ground for recruitment, the reports says. The election of President Obama may also play a role, though "most statements by right-wing extremists have been rhetorical, expressing concerns about the election of the first African American president, but stopping short of calls for violent action."

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Skinheads give the Nazi salute in this file photo. (AP Photo/Sergey Ponomarev)

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Over the past five years, various rightwing extremists, including militias and white supremacists, have adopted the immigration issue as a call to action, rallying point, and recruiting tool. - Homeland Security report

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US Warns of Rise in Right-Wing Extremism

Homeland Security: Recession is catalyst

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OTHER STORIES ON OUR RADAR

extremists • right wingers • hate groups • Homeland Security

MOST POPULAR STORIES

[ By Views ]

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More Newser Stories

Brit Tourists Refused US Entry Over Twitter Jokes

Pair did not really want to 'destroy America'

Ultra-Orthodox Don Holocaust Garb for Protest

Groups calls opposition over push for sex segregation a 'spiritual Holocaust'

Now Travel Firm Pulls Ads From Muslim Reality Show

Kayak.com joins Lowe's after evangelical campaign

Cops Thwart Firebomb Attack on Berlin Station

Leftists demand end to Afghan war, call for Bradley Manning release

Homeland Security Blowing $300M on Sketchy Scanners

Department skipped a mandatory test on ASP device, GAO complains

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