The Armed Left: Radical Groups Preparing for Civil Conflict

While public attention often centers on right-wing militias and conservative preppers, there’s a quieter but growing movement on the radical Left that is also preparing for potential civil conflict. These groups aren’t just talking—they’re organizing, training, and arming themselves in anticipation of what they believe is an inevitable societal breakdown or authoritarian crackdown.

I have seen several social media posts over the past few months where people have taken pictures and observed individuals obviously on the Left who were carrying concealed. Not too long ago, I entered a UPS store and there was a man, who was identifying as a woman, carrying a sling bag. He had several patches on his bag and jacket that were pro-LGBTQ, pro-trans, and anti-” fascist.” Messages on some of these patches basically suggested things like, “Train and be ready,” as well as “The 2nd Amendment is for everyone.” While I agree that the right to be armed and defend oneself goes across all ideologies, this changing trend is concerning. Why? The Left has proven itself willing to carry forth violence to further its beliefs and agenda.

This movement includes a wide spectrum of ideologies: Marxists, anarchists, anti-fascists, and revolutionary socialists. Groups like the John Brown Gun Club and Redneck Revolt have made headlines for their firearms training and community defense efforts. Their members range from university students and labor activists to disillusioned professionals and former service members.

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Importantly, as the example I provided showed, there are also segments of the LGBT and trans community taking an active role in this armed preparedness. Concerned about rising political hostility and violence, especially toward trans individuals, some have formed armed self-defense networks and mutual aid collectives. These groups often blend gun ownership with strong anti-fascist and anti-racist ideology, and they view preparation not just as political resistance, but as survival.

The narrative that only the political Right is gearing up for civil unrest is outdated. Across the spectrum, Americans are losing faith in the system—and some are preparing for the worst. The terrain of a future conflict may be more complex and ideologically diverse than many realize.

It’s critical we continue to prepare and be ready for whatever uncertainty becomes a reality.

Take care all –

Rourke

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