The role of subjective power dynamics in far-right collective action: The “Unite the Right” rally and the Capitol insurrection

Far-right collective action has previously been explained in terms of grievances. However, this does not adequately explain mobilisations after ingroup-relevant successes. Based on the broader literature, we suggest that analysing experiences subjective power before and during may significantly complement existing explanations far-right mobilisations. We used secondary data (predominantly videos from YouTube ProPublica) 2017 Charlottesville “Unite Right” rally 2021 Washington Capitol insurrection to qualitatively examine extent which attendees reported experiencing psychological empowerment alongside perception The events were connected by effort unify yet shaped different immediate contexts. find at Charlottesville, arrived already feeling empowered gained further itself. While seemed be driven grievances, there some indicators mainly deriving event Our analysis implications for disempowering action.