Trump Vows to Designate Antifa a Terrorist Organization, But Experts Say Legal Barriers Remain
WASHINGTON, Sept. 17, 2025 – President Donald Trump announced he will designate Antifa a “major terrorist organization,” reigniting debate over the far‑left movement and raising questions about whether such a move is legally possible.
Trump’s declaration, posted on Truth Social, came days after conservative commentator Charlie Kirk was fatally shot in an incident authorities have not linked to Antifa. “I am designating ANTIFA, A SICK, DANGEROUS, RADICAL LEFT DISASTER, AS A MAJOR TERRORIST ORGANIZATION,” Trump wrote, adding that he would recommend investigations into those tied to the movement.
Legal experts note that the U.S. government has no mechanism to designate domestic groups as terrorist organizations, and Antifa itself is not a structured entity. “Antifa is an ideology, not an organization,” former FBI Director Christopher Wray testified in 2020, underscoring the challenge of applying terrorism statutes to a decentralized movement.
What is Antifa?
Short for “anti‑fascist,” Antifa is a loose network of activists and autonomous groups that oppose far‑right extremism. While some adherents have engaged in confrontational tactics, most activity involves research, online exposure of extremists, and counter‑protests. The oldest known U.S. group, Rose City Antifa, was founded in Portland in 2007.
Historical Roots
The term traces back to anti‑fascist resistance in Europe during the 20th century, later adopted in the U.S. where it gained visibility during Trump’s 2017 inauguration protests and the Charlottesville rally that same year.
Political Flashpoint
Republicans have frequently invoked Antifa in debates over civil unrest, particularly during the 2020 Black Lives Matter protests. Trump and his allies argue the movement fuels violence, while critics say the label is used as a political weapon against left‑wing dissent.
The Legal Hurdle
Because Antifa lacks leadership, membership, or a national structure, experts say designating it as a terrorist organization would be largely symbolic. “You can’t prosecute an ideology,” noted a CBS analysis.
Conclusion
Trump’s announcement underscores how Antifa remains a potent political flashpoint. But whether his administration can legally enforce such a designation is doubtful — leaving the move more rhetorical than actionable.
