By Brig Gen (ret) Blaine Holt
A house divided against itself cannot stand. —Abraham Lincoln, Illinois Republican State Convention: June 16, 1858
The tensions between ideological factions, citizens and unauthorized residents, lawful individuals and criminal elements, and the entrenched power structures have reached a critical juncture. This moment, dubbed a “SNAPping point,” reflects an accelerating cascade of crises threatening societal stability and economic security.
The erosion of civil liberties through measures like the Patriot Act has fueled an oversized government, with constitutional principles sidelined in favor of unchecked authority. Agencies once criticized for overreach, such as the FBI and CIA, have grown even more invasive post-Patriot Act, exemplified by practices like surveillance of ordinary citizens, manipulated elections, and suppression of free speech.
The media landscape has normalized extreme narratives, from LGBTQ+ advocacy to divisive social policies, while dismissing dissenting voices as “domestic violent extremists.” Tactics such as lawfare, doxxing, and censorship have been deployed to silence opposition, ensuring compliance with a centralized agenda.
Recent political maneuvering highlights the deepening rifts. The push for $1.5 trillion in funding for unauthorized residents clashes with efforts to enforce immigration laws, creating chaos at state and local levels. Elected officials on both sides of the aisle have prioritized partisan tactics over national interests, risking government shutdowns that harm essential services.
With welfare programs at risk, the potential for civil unrest looms large. Social media platforms amplify tensions, raising fears of widespread theft and violence as vulnerable populations face uncertainty. Communities are urged to prepare, support one another, and engage with local leaders to navigate this volatile period.
The path forward remains unclear, but the resilience of American citizens will determine whether the nation emerges stronger or fractured. Accountability and unity will be essential in restoring order.
Brig Gen (ret) Blaine Holt is a former Deputy Representative to NATO, lifetime member on the Council on Foreign Relations, tech entrepreneur, and Newsmax Contributor. The views presented are those of the author and do not represent the views of the U.S. Government, Department of Defense, or its components. Read Gen. Holt’s reports — More Here.
