The word fascist is one of the most politically charged, and controversial, labels being used to describe US President Donald trump. He's been called a fascist leader by human rights experts, political commenters and even celebrities like Rosie O’Donell, who in our interview with her earlier this week called Trump an ‘an active fascist in the White House.’ 

But what are the signs and makings of a fascist leader, and how can we tell it we’re seeing a resurgence of fascist tendencies worldwide.  

In this episode of The Briefing, Helen Smith is joined by Dr Marco Duranti, a senior lecturer in European and international history, who explains what fascism looks like and how a political leader can be a fascist.  

Afternoon headlines: Rental prices increase by almost 44% in five years, Optus sent alert about triple-zero outages to wrong government email and Sam Kerr expected to make Matildas return 

Further listening: Rosie O'Donell on Trump, Gaza & fame

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