In the days since the assassination of prominent right-wing activist Charlie Kirk, the White House ordered flags flown at half-staff and memorials were organised in Washington, DC and Arizona.

But what followed wasn’t just mourning. The Trump administration is urging people to report anyone who criticised or mocked Kirk’s death, and has pledged to use federal power to uproot and dismantle left-leaning groups it says foment political violence.

Today, host of the independent media podcast Lamestream, Osman Faruqi, on how Kirk’s death is being used to crack down on the administration’s enemies – and to justify a further slide towards authoritarianism.

If you enjoy 7am, the best way you can support us is by making a contribution at 7ampodcast.com.au/support.

Socials: Stay in touch with us on Instagram

Guest: Journalist and host of the Lamestream podcast, Osman Faruqi

Photo: PA/Alamy

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

From “Making Accommodations” to Accommodating All Students with Paula Cocce