“The FBI’s and ATF’s vests are like the KGB’s blue-tabbed uniforms or the brown shirts of Hitler’s SA, and are worn for the same reason.” – Dan Gelernter

An overstatement? Maybe, maybe not. High-risk arrests, fugitive apprehensions, then yes – a paramilitary approach may be necessary, and safer for the agents. But arrests of nonviolent subjects? Arrests of pro-life activists? Arrests of people who were in Washington on Jan. 6 but did nothing violent? Then the tactical gear and the long guns are for the purpose of intimidating not only those present, but also all who disagree on either political or religious grounds.

Look at these two photos. Here are NYPD cops from the 1960s. Note how the long tunics cover the guns and duty belts, presenting a more friendly appearance.

And here are LAPD officers from today. Granted, the New York cops were relaxed and smiling, while these officers may by involved in a dangerous situation. Still, the difference is painfully obvious.

If you dress like a law-enforcement officer, you expect to meet criminals and victims. If you dress like a soldier, you expect to meet enemies. When I went out on the ward, I put on my white coat, not only to tell patients and families who I was, but more importantly, to remind myself who I was. I believe the same principle applies to tactical gear. The more you dress like a soldier, the more you’ll act like one.

Do we really want our civilian government to confront citizens with paramilitary police? Do we really want armed civilian agents to outnumber the U.S. Marine Corps? Grossly excessive FBI raids tell a story. Are we listening?