Soviet-born author and political analyst Michael Malice shared his concerns about what he perceives as a shift in American behavior resembling Soviet-style informant tactics during the pandemic. Malice highlighted how citizens reported their neighbors for breaking lockdown rules, an action he likened to authoritarian practices.
During an appearance on the “Planet Tyrus” podcast, Malice explained that authoritarian regimes depend not only on military force but also on civilian cooperation. He stated, “The pandemic was the first time Americans realized the nature of evil, as people were openly turning in their neighbors and boasting about it. Actions such as getting a cashier fired resemble Soviet tactics.”
Dr. Anthony Fauci testifies before a House committee in Washington, D.C., on June 3, 2024, amid renewed criticism of pandemic measures. (Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)
Malice, author of “The White Pill,” a book examining the rise and fall of the Soviet Union, compared the pandemic responses to those of authoritarian regimes. This criticism has gained traction following Dr. Anthony Fauci’s congressional testimony, where he invoked his Fifth Amendment rights against self-incrimination, facing criticism from Republican lawmakers.
Social media saw an influx of posts from Republican representatives and conservative commentators, condemning the prolonged lockdowns and recalling enforcement actions against violators. Rep. Lance Gooden criticized Fauci, stating that the lockdown measures adversely affected Americans significantly.
In his testimony, Fauci defended his actions, pointing to efforts by Sen. Rand Paul to antagonize him. Fauci stated, “The objective seems to be to pressure me into statements that might support his claims of wanting me, as he put it, ‘behind bars.'”
Malice discussed the concept of control through citizen involvement rather than an obvious dictatorship, attributing this to the tendency of some to cling to minor power roles fiercely. He emphasized that such enforcement by individuals is historically unfamiliar to American culture.
Fox News Digital’s Pete D’Abrosca and Madison Colombo contributed to this report.

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