Extremely American Folgen

The modern militia movement started, in part, in Lee Miracle's living room. In 1994, a bunch of guys incensed about the deadly government sieges at Ruby Ridge, Idaho and Waco, Texas gathered there. They talked about what they would do if the government came knocking on their door and agreed, they'd want backup.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

The hubbub began on once-sleepy South Whidbey Island, Washington in 2020 in the unlikeliest of places: a local grange hall. A militia group, the Washington III Percent, quietly took over the small, agriculture-centered community center and started shutting everyone else out. Then they took aim at local schools, where students were demanding more inclusion for LGBTQ+ students and students of color.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

Eric Parker went to a ranch in Nevada, pointed his rifle at federal agents, then beat the feds in court. It made him a folk hero in the militia movement. And he's worked hard to soften the image of his militia. Instead of fighting the government, he's become an increasingly powerful political force pulling the state GOP even farther right. Now he's after a new title: state Senator in Idaho.Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy