The Proud Boys are ramping up recruitment and activity as they brace for the 2024 election, signaling potential street clashes and violent conflicts. Their growing presence at Trump rallies and other events highlights their readiness for whatever November might bring.
Proud Boys on the Rise
The conservative quasi-militia, Proud Boys, is seeing an uptick in membership as they experience a period they call the “calm before the storm.” Recent investigations reveal the group’s increased recruitment and activity in preparation for the 2024 election and its aftermath.
Preparing for 2024
The violent right-wing group is ramping up efforts, with members appearing at various Trump campaign events and other pro-Trump gatherings. They were most notably present at a massive rally on the Jersey Shore last month.
Presence at Events
At an event in Wildwood, New Jersey, a Proud Boys member stated they were providing “security,” a common claim despite their history of antagonizing protesters. Their involvement ranges from Trump rallies to Pride parades, often resulting in street brawls.
Denials from Trump Campaign
A Trump campaign official denied any coordination with the Proud Boys for the Wildwood rally. Despite this, the group’s presence was also noticed outside Trump’s Bedminster golf club a month earlier.
Holding Pattern and Preparations
Members describe the Proud Boys as being in a holding pattern, preparing for future confrontations with the left, potentially following the 2024 election. The group has shifted from public-facing leaders to an underground structure.
Leadership Changes
Enrique Tarrio, a founder, is serving a 22-year sentence for seditious conspiracy related to the January 6 attack. Another founder, Gavin McInnes, has officially cut ties but remains quietly involved behind the scenes.
Local Chapters Gain Power
The Proud Boys’ shift to an underground vision hasn’t hindered their growth. Without national leadership, local chapters are operating with greater autonomy, continuing to expand their influence.
Anticipating 2024
Members of the Proud Boys believe 2024 will see them return to the streets in support of Donald Trump. “If Trump loses, our republic, the country goes away. Bad things are going to happen,” one member told Reuters.
Violence and Street Brawls
An Ohio chapter posted a video of members in a street fight after Trump’s Manhattan hush money trial verdict. The video caption read, “Fighting solves everything.”
Role in January 6 Attack
Investigators and witnesses of the January 6 congressional investigation described the Proud Boys as leaders in the Capitol siege. They were among the first and most violent rioters, leaving dozens of police officers wounded.
Proud Boys’ Perspective
Members accept the description of being the “tip of the spear” on January 6. One member stated, “Without the Proud Boys, Jan 6 didn’t happen.”
Unrepentant Members
A 44-year-old member, sentenced for his role in the attack, expressed no remorse. “You could give me 100 years and I would still do it all over again,” Marc Anthony Bru said as he received a six-year prison sentence.
