“These Are Real Threats” – Ron DeSantis Under Fire for Promise About “Slitting Throats” of Federal Bureaucrats

Gabriel RomanNov 8, 2023

Minute Read

With every political campaign, words matter. GOP presidential candidate Ron DeSantis has ignited a fierce debate with his choice of words. He spoke about “slitting throats” and made several other strong comments. This has sparked discussions about the role of language in politics.

DeSantis’s Controversial Promise

At a rally that captured national attention, Ron DeSantis boldly claimed he would “start slitting throats on Day 1.” He aimed his words at those within the government he considers part of the ‘deep state.’ This alarming metaphor intended to signify a crackdown on bureaucracy has instead prompted a wave of criticism and worry among observers who question the violent undertones of such a statement.

DeSantis Defends His Words

In the face of mounting criticism, Ron DeSantis doubled down on his rhetoric during an interview with MSNBC’s Willie Geist. The presidential hopeful asserted that his ‘colorful’ language was simply a metaphor for enforcing accountability within the federal government. He firmly rejected the suggestion that he was inciting actual violence.

Outrage from Various Quarters

The backlash to DeSantis’s aggressive language was swift and widespread. Tony Reardon, leader of the National Treasury Employees Union, openly decried the remark as “repulsive,” and Everett Kelley, President of the American Federation of Government Employees, called it “disqualifying” for someone on the presidential campaign trail.

Prominent Critics Weigh In

The political sphere was abuzz with rebukes from high-profile figures. Conservative commentator Bill Kristol accused DeSantis of trying to win the support of the far-right faction of the party. He suggested DeSantis was racing down a “dangerous lane” that could seriously affect the Republican primary’s outcome.

The Timing of the Rhetoric

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DeSantis’s comments were not made in a vacuum. They arrived as he tried to distinguish himself in a crowded field. While his intent may have been to highlight his commitment to reducing government size, the stark imagery he used has, for some, overshadowed the substance of his policy proposals.

DeSantis in the Polls

DeSantis’s position in the polls, where he trails behind former President Donald Trump, suggests a challenging road ahead. Analysts speculate that his recent comments may further complicate his campaign efforts. These could potentially alienate moderate voters who are critical to securing the nomination.

The ‘Deep State’ Narrative

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Ron DeSantis’s continued allusions to a ‘deep state’ conspiracy tap into a potent narrative popular among some conservative circles. By employing language such as ‘slitting throats,’ he reinforces the notion of a shadowy internal opposition within the government. Many of his supporters believe this group needs to be eradicated.

Federal Employees in the Crosshairs

Amid this controversy, it is the federal employees who find themselves at the rhetorical epicenter. Advocates like Everett Kelley have been vocal. They demand that these workers be acknowledged for their dedication to public service rather than being cast as the villains in a politicized narrative.

Concerns Over Real-life Consequences

Many union leaders and politicians alike have raised the alarm about DeSantis’s words, including AFGE’s Kelley and Senator Mark Warner. They have drawn lines between DeSantis’s language and the risk of inciting actual violence. They reference disturbing instances of anti-government hostility that have been spurred by similar rhetoric in the past.

A Concern for Many Voters

For voters intent on seeing government reform, they agree with DeSantis’s promises to bring accountability to the federal bureaucracy. However, his choice to express this through violent metaphors has sparked a debate. Some question whether such language is appropriate or effective in achieving a more respectful and productive political discourse.

DeSantis’s Stance Remains Firm

In the eye of the storm, DeSantis has not wavered. He maintains that his choice of words was apt for the message he wished to convey. Observers are left to wonder how this defiant stance might influence his standing with primary voters. Naturally, this will also affect the larger electorate come election time.

GOP and Violence

In a scathing critique, one observer drew a direct line from the current climate to past events, saying, “The GOP appears as violent as causing an insurrection. The need for mental checks in the GOP is evident.” This statement reflects a growing concern among some that the rhetoric within the Republican Party could be fostering a culture that allows for political violence.

Violent Language or Order?

Some users showed concern that there is a potential for dangerous misinterpretation of political rhetoric. One user said, “Calling it ‘colorful language’ doesn’t change its implications. To some, it sounds like a direct order.” This remark underscores the fear that such statements, however metaphorically intended, might be taken literally by certain members of the public.

Right-Wing Base and Violent Talk

Reflecting on the broader political landscape, a commentator opined, “Violent talk seems to resonate with the right-wing base. It’s a concerning reflection of their mindset.” This observation suggests a troubling connection between incendiary language and its apparent appeal among certain conservative constituents. They believe DeSantis’s words are very dangerous.

DeSantis’s New Title

The ripple effect of DeSantis’s comments has led to some adopting insults for the Florida governor. One critic called him “The Little Dictator Of Florida.” This kind of mockery reflects the extent to which his comments have struck a nerve and entered the cultural conversation. It seems many people feel frustrated with DeSantis.

Was it a Joke?

Amid debates about the governor’s intentions, skeptics have voiced their unease. One user said, “It’s a concerning choice of words, and I doubt he was joking.” This reflects a segment of the population that is taking DeSantis’s words at face value, seeing them as indicative of a possible underlying disposition towards authoritarianism.

Sensitivity or Genuine Concern?

Responding to those who may dismiss the reactions as oversensitivity, an observer countered, “People aren’t just being sensitive. These are real threats we’re talking about.” The emphasis on the reality of threats alludes to a heightened awareness of political rhetoric’s potential to incite real-world violence. Clearly, many people are worried about DeSantis’s comments.

Comparisons to Other Threats

Some have compared how similar language is typically treated, with an individual pointing out, “People get arrested for lesser threats against officials. Why is DeSantis treated differently?” This comment raises questions about the consistency of responses to perceived threats and the standards applied to public figures versus private citizens.