Forgotten history is like a rake neglected in the national backyard. Soon enough you’ll return to where you left it, and if you step on its teeth, it’ll swing up and hit you in the face.

That’s the gist of a Bill Moyers video essay that compares the political behavior of Florida Congressman Allen West to that of the shamed Sen. Joseph McCarthy in the 1950s. West recently revived McCarthy’s strategy of smearing Democratic Congress members by claiming some of them are undercover communists. (Above, McCarthy, at left, and a caricature of Rep. West.) –ARK

Bill Moyers:

Dig, Root, Grow

This year, we’re all on shaky ground, and the need for independent journalism has never been greater. A new administration is openly attacking free press — and the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Your support is more than a donation. It helps us dig deeper into hidden truths, root out corruption and misinformation, and grow an informed, resilient community.

Independent journalism like Truthdig doesn't just report the news — it helps cultivate a better future.

Your tax-deductible gift powers fearless reporting and uncompromising analysis. Together, we can protect democracy and expose the stories that must be told.

Dig. Root. Grow. Cultivate a better future.

Donate today.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG