Rachel Maddow Presents: Ultra
Episode 7: Mobilized
Release Date: July 29, 2024

Rachel Maddow delves into the intense political maneuvers surrounding Senator Joseph McCarthy's censure in the United States Senate. This episode, titled "Mobilized," explores the fervent support McCarthy garnered, the orchestrated efforts to censure him, and the broader implications for American democracy.

1. Introduction to the Conflict

The episode opens with a dramatization set on December 1, 1954, at the United States Capitol. Men dressed in plain black uniforms, bearing shields reminiscent of police attire, position themselves armed outside the Capitol's doors. Their presence signals the rising tension as a new authoritarian movement gains momentum, spearheaded by Senator Joseph McCarthy, a controversial figure known for his anti-Communist crusades.

Narrator (01:56): "By the end of 1954, Joe McCarthy's own actions are finally starting to catch up to him."

2. The Censure of Senator Joseph McCarthy

Senator McCarthy, infamous for his accusations against alleged Communists within the U.S. Army and other institutions, faces his third censure in Senate history. The censure is a response to his tactics, which have led to the public destruction of numerous individuals' careers and lives.

Historian (03:15): "They were trying to sell this as almost a Hollywood moment, showing that the real Americans, what Nixon would later call the silent majority, were behind Joe McCarthy."

The censure proceedings are marred by McCarthy's supporters marching to the Capitol, threatening an "army of real Americans" against the Senate's actions. This escalation raises fears of potential street violence.

Historian (04:04): "It'll be violent and bitter, I'm sorry."

3. McCarthy’s Strategy and Public Perception

McCarthy's influence stems from his ability to capitalize on public fear and anger, positioning himself as the sole defender against internal threats. His strategy involves portraying himself as a martyr, willing to face political persecution for the greater good.

Historian (14:30): "Fight to expose those who would destroy this nation will go on and on."

Despite increasing evidence against him, McCarthy's base remains loyal, driven by fear, grievance, and unwavering loyalty.

4. Mobilization of Supporters

In response to the impending censure, McCarthy's supporters organize massive rallies and petition drives. Notably, a rally at Constitution Hall in Washington sees an unexpected appearance by McCarthy himself, eliciting wild enthusiasm from the crowd.

Historian (17:54): "One of the greatest living folds of communist slavery. That man is Joe McCarthy."

These rallies are characterized by fervent speeches, emotional displays, and the presence of extremist groups like the neo-Nazi National Renaissance Party.

5. The Role of Extremist Groups

The episode highlights the alarming collaboration between mainstream political figures and extremist factions. Leaders like Gerald L.K. Smith orchestrate events that blend nationalist rhetoric with overt anti-Semitic and pro-Nazi sentiments.

Historian (24:22): "They considered him, as they would say."

This alliance underscores the porous boundary between the ultra-right and mainstream politics, facilitated by McCarthy's influence.

6. Attempts to Delay and Evade Censure

As the censure vote approaches, McCarthy employs tactical delays, citing a fabricated injury—traumatic bursitis of the elbow—to postpone proceedings.

Narrator (31:38): "McCarthy informs the Senate that there cannot be a censure vote against him because he has come down with traumatic bursitis of the elbow."

Simultaneously, his supporters launch a lightning petition drive, aiming to gather 10 million signatures within 10 days to halt the censure.

Historian (34:26): "This particular petition has been mushrooming at such a tremendous rate that it's beginning to look like that not 10 million, but we could probably get 20 million signatures if we just had the time."

7. The Final Censure Vote

Despite McCarthy's maneuvers and massive support base, the Senate proceeds with the censure vote. The outcome is a mixed verdict:

• Total Vote: 67 to 22 in favor of censure.
• Democratic Senators: Unanimously vote to censure McCarthy.
• Republican Senators: Approximately half support the censure, revealing a deep division within the party.

Historian (39:56): "Joseph McCarthy is the fourth senator in history to be so disciplined by his colleagues in the Capitol."

However, the censure is notably mild, criticizing McCarthy for discourteous behavior rather than his more egregious actions.

Narrator (41:00): "The resolution they passed against him called him out instead for his discourteousness toward his fellow Senators, for violating Senate rules and traditions."

8. Aftermath and Lasting Impact

Post-censure, McCarthy's influence within the Republican Party and among his base remains substantial. Supporters reinterpret the censure as evidence of a corrupt system, further galvanizing their movement to elevate McCarthy to presidential power.

Historian (43:54): "They wanted to turn McCarthy from a martyr back into a hero."

Efforts include strategic petition drives, mass rallies, and plans to manipulate the Electoral College to secure his presidency regardless of the popular vote.

Roger McDaniel (48:35): "We can get our wish by qualifying a slate of American Presidential elector candidates in our respective states."

This episode underscores the enduring challenges posed by charismatic demagogues and the vulnerabilities within democratic institutions when faced with orchestrated authoritarian movements.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• David Austin Walsh (02:37): "It's a very deliberately choreographed moment."

• Historian (04:06): "Pro McCarthy marches say they want a peaceful and dignified operation down here. But if the anti McCarthy marches come in, I wonder just how peaceful it will be if they all tangle together up there on the Hill."

• Roger McDaniel (35:13): "Politician really worth listening to and supporting."

• Historian (51:32): "Between these contending viewpoints, my friends, lies a long stick of political dynamite with fuses now burning at both ends."

Conclusion

Episode 7 of Rachel Maddow Presents: Ultra meticulously dissects the tumultuous period surrounding Joe McCarthy's censure, revealing the complex interplay between political strategy, extremist mobilization, and institutional responses. Through detailed narratives and expert insights, Maddow highlights the fragility of democratic processes in the face of determined authoritarian ambitions.