The Uncertain Resurrection of the Oath Keepers: Stewart Rhodes' Plea for Relevance

Relaunching a Faltering Militia

Stewart Rhodes, the notorious leader of the Oath Keepers, recently announced his intent to relaunch the militia, which effectively disbanded after a series of arrests post-January 6. His efforts appear desperate, as former members indicate a lack of interest in rejoining.

“I think it's a last-ditch effort to stay relevant,” says Jon Lewis, a research fellow at the Program on Extremism at George Washington University.

From Prominence to Obscurity

After the insurrection that captivated the nation, shadowy figures like Rhodes are finding it increasingly difficult to rally support. Once, the Oath Keepers were among the largest militias in the U.S., boasting 38,000 members. However, public sentiment has since shifted, and many former Oath Keepers have distanced themselves from the controversial leader.

• Janet Arroyo, a former chapter leader, says, “We haven't heard from him in six years, and we have no plans to rejoin.”
• Jessica Watkins, another former member, claims that most individuals she knows are trying to rebuild their lives away from the militia spotlight.
• Even Kelly Meggs, convicted of seditious conspiracy, expresses hesitance to rejoin, citing concerns over governmental reprisals against ex-members.

Rhodes' Financial Appeals

Amidst this atmosphere of skepticism, Rhodes is soliciting funds to facilitate the Oath Keepers' revival. His recent crowdfunding campaign aimed at raising $75,000 has barely crossed the $1,000 mark—a stark indication of waning support.

“The people just aren't buying it anymore,” observes Lewis. Rhodes envisions the new Oath Keepers as defenders against a so-called 'insurrection by the left,' yet this narrative seems to resonate with fewer and fewer individuals.

The Legacy of the Oath Keepers

Founded in 2009 as a reaction to conspiracy theories surrounding the Obama administration, the Oath Keepers attracted a broad array of anti-government sentiments. However, their prominence surged during the Trump era, only to plunge into disfavor following the January 6 insurrection and Rhodes' conviction.

“He presents an ongoing threat to the very fabric of this democracy,” stated a judge during Rhodes' sentencing.

A Dark Future for the Relaunch?

Rhodes' recent claims about being ready and willing to take on violent tendencies and use militia actions to further his agenda pose a significant risk. The transformation of his message represents not only a shift in sentiment but a potential pivot that could lead to further confrontational actions.

Current conversations surrounding the Oath Keepers reflect a reluctance among many to once again associate themselves with an organization that has been tagged as extremist, particularly under a leader whose actions have led to criminal convictions.

Conclusion: The Road Ahead

Ultimately, Stewart Rhodes is at a crossroads. The re-launching of the Oath Keepers may signify more than just a strategic comeback; it could depict a broader trend of dwindling enthusiasm for far-right militias in the post-Trump era. As the political climate continues to shift, the question remains whether the Oath Keepers have truly faded into the background, or if they will find an unexpected resurgence.