What is MAGA communism? A discussion with philosopher Carlos Garrido

What is the so-called MAGA communism? A few years ago, a meme appeared online: MAGA communism. Shortly afterwards, the ACP (American Communist Party) was formed as the fusion of the Midwestern Marx Institute, the Infrared community and individuals that left the CPUSA whilst criticising it as being a pipeline for the Democratic party. The reactions to this provocation were disparate: from accusations of “tailing” reactionary MAGA positions, to ad hominem attacks to some of its leaders. But what if MAGA communism is a simple tactical move to contend to the right sections of the working class that are totally alienated by the moralistic approach of the dominant forms of a liberal, compatible, left? What if MAGA communism is simply trying to make the people that saw in Trump an alternative to the establishment understand that the reasons that lead them to perceive him in such a way are precisely the issues that they have been betrayed upon? The man that should have “ended forever wars” and “re-industrialised the country” is now engaging in imperialistic foreign policy, whilst US labour market data continuously show loss of good jobs and a rise in gig economy related professions that are precarious and badly paid. In this interview, we spoke with Carlos Garrido, philosopher and prominent member of the executive Board of the ACP, who helped us better understand the political project of the newly formed American Communist Party.