Trump says Antifa could be labeled “domestic terrorists”

Antifa, short for “anti-fascist,” is not a formal organization but rather a loosely connected movement that first drew widespread U.S. attention in 2017 after violent clashes at rallies.

With roots in European anti-fascist street protests, Antifa groups in the United States typically organize locally and are best known for confronting demonstrators, often wearing black clothing and masks.

Supporters describe the movement as a direct response to extremist ideologies and argue that its presence is meant to prevent hate groups from gaining ground. Critics, however, point to incidents of property damage and violent altercations at protests, saying Antifa goes beyond activism into lawlessness.

On Monday, President Donald Trump said he would consider designating Antifa, and potentially other left-wing groups, as domestic terrorists, citing what he views as organized violence.

Legal experts note that treating a loosely organized movement like Antifa as a single entity could be difficult.