Hillary Clinton Doubles Down on 'Deplorables' Comment and Calls for Deprogramming

In her article, Clinton revisits her 2016 statement where she categorized a significant portion of Trump supporters as “deplorables,” specifically pointing to their attraction to racism, sexism, and other forms of bigotry. She acknowledges that while her choice of words was politically unwise, it captured a troubling reality, especially in light of events like the Charlottesville rally and the January 6 insurrection. Clinton expresses a desire for empathy towards those she disagrees with but simultaneously maintains that some individuals are “irredeemable.” This duality in her perspective raises questions about how to effectively address and rehabilitate individuals who have been radicalized, leading her to advocate for structured efforts to “deprogram” those influenced by extremist views.

Reflection on Empathy and Redemption

Clinton emphasizes the difficulty of empathizing with individuals whose beliefs starkly oppose one’s own. She recalls a meeting with a former white supremacist who now works to help others leave hate groups, suggesting that such empathy could be a pathway to healing societal divisions. Despite her acknowledgment of the challenges, Clinton hopes for the possibility of redemption for all, asserting that there is goodness in everyone, albeit sometimes difficult to see.

Controversy and Backlash

Clinton’s renewed comments have sparked criticism from various quarters, particularly among Republican figures who view her remarks as divisive and extreme. Her previous suggestion for “formal deprogramming” of Trump supporters has further fueled accusations of authoritarianism and calls for reeducation, intensifying the debate over how to engage with political adversaries in an increasingly polarized landscape.