The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines fascism as "a political philosophy, movement, or regime that exalts nation and often race above the individual and that stands for a centralized autocratic government headed by a dictatorial leader, severe economic and social regimentation, and forcible suppression of opposition".
The rise of jingoistic patriotism, the move away from federalism in favor of federalization, the increased power of the Executive Branch, the plethora of unconstitutional or extraconstitutional legislation criminalizing behavior and micromanaging the economy, and the propensity of politicians to disregard the Bill of Rights has pushed America to what Lew Rockwell calls an "an updated and Americanized fascism".
Steven LaTulippe writes: Lew Rockwell is correct. The seminal political event of the past several years in America has been the changing political ideology of Middle America from small-government conservatism to a virulent brand of fascism.
America may be just one terrorist attack or economic crisis away from becoming a full-blown police state with all the trappings of fascism. The republic is in grave danger and radical change is required. It is time to re-think the role of government. It is time for a new American revolution.