“Terrorism is Not the Answer”: CPI Founder Responds to Brian Thompson Killing

In response to the murder of Brian Thompson on December 4th, and the celebration of it by many prominent voices on the internet, CPI founder Caleb Maupin spoke out against left-adventurism, terrorism, and political violence, emphasizing that these are not the solution. He highlighted how such tactics often isolate serious revolutionary forces from the masses, justify police crackdowns, and hinder the emergence of real social movements necessary to bring about meaningful change.

Maupin referenced the “Who do we shoot?” passage from John Steinbeck’s famous novel The Grapes of Wrath, emphasizing that systemic problems cannot be solved through retaliation against specific individuals. He contrasted the isolated act of this assassination by a lone individual with the potential impact of thousands of people participating in a mass campaign of civil disobedience. Such a campaign, he argued, could demand reforms to the U.S. healthcare system, foster solidarity, and educate participants while building the skills necessary for successful collective action.

Maupin also cited the conflict in Northern Ireland and Italy’s “Years of Lead” as cautionary examples of how prolonged periods of political violence can lead to a demoralized population and ultimately result in victories for imperialist forces.

Watch the full video here: