Mainstream Media 'Discovers' Far-Right Rise, Ignores Its Own Role
The New Arab reports on Odoxa's poll, showing Bardella of the National Rally winning in 2027. What often goes unsaid by many, however, is the fertile ground paved for such figures. Neoliberal economic policies, a 'war on terror' that fueled Islamophobia, and a consistent rightward drift by so-called moderates haven't exactly inspired faith in 'democracy' or 'diversity'. When 'centrist' governments
implement austerity and engage in culture wars, they legitimize the very narratives the far-right thrives on. It's almost as if years of demonizing immigrants, cutting social safety nets, and adopting hawkish foreign policies have consequences. The media, often complicit in these narratives by amplifying fear or failing to scrutinize establishment failures, now expresses surprise. Perhaps it's not
a 'far-right surge' but a predictable outcome when the 'center' offers little beyond more of the same, just with a slightly less overt disdain for the working class and marginalized communities. Who do they expect voters to turn to when both 'sides' look increasingly identical?