As the United States gears up for another high-stakes presidential election, BBC Sounds and BBC Radio 4 present the second season of “The Coming Storm,” hosted by journalist Gabriel Gatehouse. This series dives deep into the murky waters of American politics, focusing on the mainstreaming of conspiracy theories that could shape the future of the nation. Following the success of the first series, which examined how the QAnon conspiracy theory fueled the January 6 Capitol riots, Gabriel Gatehouse returns to explore the new waves of conspiracy thinking that have become integral to the American political landscape.
A Glimpse Back: The First Series
The inaugural season of “The Coming Storm” unraveled the impact of QAnon, a sprawling conspiracy theory that claimed America was secretly ruled by a cabal of satanic pedophiles. This theory, believed by millions, played a significant role in the January 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol. Gabriel Gatehouse, along with producer Lucy Proctor, ventured into the heart of this belief system, offering listeners a detailed analysis of how such ideas could drive ordinary citizens to commit extraordinary acts of violence.
The Second Series: A Deeper Dive into Conspiracy Culture
In the second series, Gatehouse and Proctor take listeners on a journey through the history and evolution of conspiracy thinking in America. This time, they explore how these once-fringe ideas have become mainstream, particularly within the Republican Party. The series delves into the fears surrounding the potential re-election of Donald Trump, with some viewing it as a threat to American democracy, while others believe their democracy has already been hijacked by a sinister deep state, with Trump being their only savior.
Historical Roots: The Forgotten Coup Plot
One of the most intriguing aspects of this series is its exploration of a long-forgotten coup plot from the 1930s. This plot, hatched by a paranoid political group, aimed to establish a deep state during the Cold War era. Although it faded into obscurity, the ideas behind it have found new life in the conservative backwaters of the Western Mountain states. Gatehouse traces the origins of these beliefs, providing context for their resurgence in modern-day America.
Key Figures and Perspectives
The series features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own unique perspective on the state of American democracy. Among them is a yoga teacher who participated in the January 6 riots and now believes that the storming of the Capitol was orchestrated by the deep state. He views his subsequent detention as political imprisonment, reflecting a broader sentiment among some Americans who see the government as the enemy.
Militias and the Deep State
The series also sheds light on the growing influence of militias in America, many of whom are convinced that the CIA and FBI are working against the American people. These groups see themselves as defenders of the Constitution, ready to take up arms against what they perceive as a corrupt and tyrannical government. Gatehouse’s interviews with these militia members provide a chilling glimpse into the mindset of those who are prepared to fight for their beliefs, no matter the cost.
Tech Utopians and Conspiracy Theories
In the background, the series examines the role of tech utopian ideologists who, using their vast wealth and influence, are funding conspiracy-laden content. These individuals are working to create sovereign states free from government control, driven by a belief in the power of technology to liberate humanity. Gatehouse explores how these fringe ideas have not only gained traction but have also become central to the Trump campaign, while Democrats issue dark warnings about the potential collapse of American democracy.
The Central Question: The Future of American Democracy
As the series progresses, it raises a crucial question: what are the prospects for the survival of the American political system? With conspiracy theories taking center stage in political discourse, the series examines the potential consequences for the future of the United States and, by extension, the rest of the world.
Gabriel Gatehouse’s Perspective
Reflecting on the second series, Gabriel Gatehouse notes, “In series one, we examined the sprawling conspiracy theory of QAnon, which drove a mob into the Capitol on January 6, 2021. But when producer Lucy Proctor and I returned to America in the run-up to the 2024 presidential election, we found that things had only gotten stranger. Millions of Americans seemed to believe that their vaunted democracy was a sham, with the institutions of the state serving as a mere facade. Series two is another deeply reported examination of how US politics has been captured by conspiracy theories, and what this means for democracy, not just in America, but everywhere.”
BBC Radio 4’s Commitment to In-Depth Journalism
Daniel Clarke, BBC Radio 4’s Factual Commissioning Editor, expresses his enthusiasm for the new series, stating, “We’re delighted to be working with Gabriel and Lucy again following the hugely successful first series. Each episode is a gripping listen, as well as being truly intellectually ambitious, as the team tackles the central question driving the series: what is spurring so many Americans to believe that their government has been captured by a cabal of people controlling it from behind the scenes?”
Broadcast and Availability
The second series of “The Coming Storm” will be broadcast every Wednesday at 9:30 am on BBC Radio 4, starting from September 11. For those who prefer on-demand listening, the series will also be available on BBC Sounds.
Conclusion: The Importance of Understanding Conspiracy Theories
As “The Coming Storm” returns for its second series, it serves as a timely reminder of the power of conspiracy theories to shape political discourse and influence the future of nations. Gabriel Gatehouse’s in-depth reporting offers listeners a comprehensive understanding of how these ideas have taken root in America and what they mean for the future of democracy. As the world watches the upcoming U.S. presidential election, “The Coming Storm” provides essential context for understanding the forces at play and the potential consequences for us all.
