On Chicago’s Morning Answer, Dan Proft welcomed Steven Bucci, a visiting fellow at the Heritage Foundation and former Army Special Forces officer, for a wide-ranging discussion on domestic extremism and U.S. foreign policy.
Bucci endorsed former President Trump’s decision to designate Antifa as a terrorist organization, calling it “a long time in coming.” He dismissed claims that Antifa is merely a loose affiliation, pointing to undercover reports showing structured training, coordination, and outside funding. According to Bucci, this evidence makes Antifa “an organization with a big O” and a legitimate target for federal investigations, including the use of RICO statutes. He urged law enforcement to pursue not only the individuals committing violence but also those funding and directing them.
The conversation broadened to the issue of left-wing political violence in the U.S. Bucci cited numerous examples — from assaults on journalists to threats against public officials — and argued that Democrats who downplay or excuse such incidents are fueling the problem. He said law enforcement must be empowered to act, and political leaders must stop using rhetoric that normalizes violence.
Turning abroad, Bucci addressed the Pentagon’s recent buildup of naval and air assets near Venezuela. He explained that while the immediate mission is aimed at disrupting narco-trafficking networks, the possibility of regime change in Caracas remains “on the table.” Bucci cautioned, however, that removing Nicolás Maduro would be complex and risky, warning that even Venezuelans who oppose the dictator may resist outside intervention if it appears imposed by Washington. He emphasized that any decision must be accompanied by careful planning to avoid unintended consequences.
Bucci concluded that both domestic security and foreign policy challenges require consistency, clear strategy, and the willingness to act decisively when threats emerge — whether from extremist networks at home or destabilizing regimes abroad.