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If you supported Ron Paul during the election, or are an active pro-life advocate, or possess “subversive literature,” you might be on a local or national watchlist.
These lists, held by the Department of Homeland Security, highlight people that may think of joining “domestic paramilitary groups” – militias.
Last week, someone leaked "The Modern Militia Movement," a report by the Missouri Information Analysis Center (MIAC), a government “fusion center.”
The MIAC collects and combines intelligence from federal and local law enforcement agencies to combat criminal activity, especially terrorism.
"Due to the current economical and political situation, a lush environment for militia activity has been created," the Modern Militia report reads. "Unemployment rates are high, as well as costs of living expenses. Additionally, President Barack Obama is seen as tight on gun control and many extremists fear that he will enact firearms confiscations."
But civil libertarians, the ACLU, and a growing group of bloggers say the report goes too far. Being interested in third-party politics or having anti-abortion views shouldn’t be enough to lump you in with the KKK or the Unabomber. Being concerned with 2nd Amendment rights doesn’t make you an extremist.
As for “subversive literature?” Suggested book lists include “The Communist Manifesto,” “1984,” “Catcher in the Rye,” and any of Chuck Palahiuk’s writings. I have all these and other controversial books on my shelf. Am I “at risk” for militia membership?