Aaron Bushnell’s death by self-immolation in front of the Israeli Embassy in Washington last month has provoked nationwide soul-searching about the war in Gaza. For the U.S. government though, the airman’s death excites a different kind of search: for so-called extremists, particularly left-wing ones.
Senator Tom Cotton, a former Army officer and member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, recently sent a letter to Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin questioning how an airman like Bushnell could be allowed to serve in the military. Cotton labeled Bushnell’s death as an act of violence in support of a terrorist group, Hamas, and inquired about the Defense Department’s efforts to address extremism within its ranks.
This push to identify extremist views within the military follows a trend that has gained momentum since January 6. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin directed the military to address extremism in the ranks, focusing on white nationalism and neo-Nazi support among service members.
The FBI, responsible for domestic counterterrorism, has also been on high alert since the conflict in Gaza began. FBI Director Christopher Wray emphasized the increased threat of attacks against Americans on U.S. soil due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
Bushnell’s suicide was not only a political act in support of the Palestinian people but also reflected his embrace of anarchism. His social media presence and interactions with anarchist groups showcased his rejection of established authority and his commitment to challenging coercive structures.
The FBI’s focus on domestic terrorism includes a category for Anti-Government or Anti-Authority Violent Extremism, which encompasses anarchist violent extremists. The bureau has increased its targeting of anarchist groups, especially since the protests following George Floyd’s death in 2020.
Despite Bushnell’s alignment with anarchism, his views did not entirely match the FBI’s definition of Anarchist Violent Extremists. However, his actions have fueled calls from some Republicans and conservatives for the FBI to equally investigate left-wing extremism.
Senator Chuck Grassley has urged the FBI to strengthen its program for combating left-wing anarchist extremism, highlighting the need for a more robust approach to addressing all forms of extremism.
The Pentagon has hinted at considering Bushnell’s death as an act of extremism due to his strong anarchist views. The press secretary acknowledged that self-immolation is an extreme act and promised a full investigation into the matter.
Bushnell’s death has raised questions about the potential for a witch hunt targeting anarchists and left-wing extremists. As lawmakers and government agencies intensify their focus on identifying and addressing extremism, individuals like Bushnell find themselves at the center of a contentious debate over political ideologies and acts of protest.
In conclusion, Aaron Bushnell’s tragic death has sparked a broader conversation about extremism within the military and society at large. As government officials and law enforcement agencies grapple with the complexities of identifying and combating extremism, the legacy of individuals like Bushnell serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in navigating political activism and dissent in a polarized world.