By early 2006, the National Socialist Movement (NSM; Group Profile forthcoming) had positioned itself as the preeminent neo-Nazi organization in the United States . Increased media attention due to the group?s cooperation with other white supremacist groups, such as the Ku Klux Klan , allowed the NSM to draw in a higher level of new recruits than in the past, as their image was bolstered among other neo-Nazis. The NSM began to expand their operations and activities and in addition to providing a radio and news program, launched a white power music label entitled NSM Records. The group also declared its intent to develop and release an anti-Semitic video game entitled ?Zionist Occupied Government Nightmare? later in the year.
The NSM, which espouses an ideology calling for a ?greater America? that would eliminate citizenship for Jews, non-whites, and homosexuals, is considered the most Nazi-like group in the US due to its paramilitary structure and use of uniforms that parallels those of Hitler?s Third Reich. In addition to their radical ideology, the group engages in threatening activities, to include the publication of instructions for building explosive devices, armed paramilitary training for members, and attendance at numerous events where members have sparked violence resulting in police intervention and property damage.
The Formation of Splinter Groups
Despite the NSM?s growth in early 2006, tensions developed, particularly within the group?s leadership, later in the year. Bill White, the media liaison for the NSM, began to increase controversial rhetoric throughout his speeches by denouncing and spreading lies about those he considered his enemies, to include other white supremacists. His behavior led to his eventual expulsion from the NSM. White formed the American National Socialist Workers Party, another neo-Nazi group, that has attracted key NSM leaders and has reduced membership in his former group.
Furthermore, Cliff Herrington, the former chairman of NSM, sparked additional controversy when Citizens Against Hate reported that the P.O. Box used by NSM?s Tulsa chapter was shared with The Joy of Satan Ministry, a satanic cult in which Herrington?s wife is the High Priestess. Due to the Christian beliefs of many NSM members, Herrington was forced from the group and subsequently formed the National Socialist Freedom Movement, which has also drawn members and leaders from the NSM.
The Challenges Ahead
The formation of the two new neo-Nazi splinter groups has continued to detract membership from the larger NSM organization, specifically the loss of important high-ranking members, and has led to the disbandment of several chapters throughout the US. As the broader white supremacist movement continues to splinter, challenges emerge concerning the monitoring and tracking of members who threaten to engage in violent actions to achieve their goals. Smaller, less-known groups pose a significant threat, as it is increasingly difficult to detect their actions and carry out counter-operations. As these groups continue to develop their operational capabilities, the challenge in combating such organizations will increase accordingly.
