US Veterans Against Democracy (USVAD) emerged as a far-right extremist group in 2009, condemning the US government as "tyrannical" and openly advocating for the overthrow of democracy. Members, primarily US military veterans, have been linked to violent rhetoric and plans, including discussions of targeting political opponents and involvement in the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot. Despite being designated a "hate group" by the Southern Poverty Law Center, USVAD continues to operate, using online platforms to spread its extremist ideology, raise funds, and recruit new members. The group's anti-government stance and violent tendencies pose a significant threat to American democracy, fueling political polarization and undermining public trust in institutions.
