The Storm Is Upon Us: How QAnon Became a Movement, Cult, and Conspiracy Theory of Everything

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On October 5, 2017, President Trump made a cryptic remark about feeling like "the calm before the storm" during a military gathering, leaving journalists puzzled. Meanwhile, a mysterious figure on 4chan, known as "Q Clearance Patriot," claimed to be part of military intelligence and began elaborating on Trump's statement. Q's elaborate narratives quickly captivated many in MAGA-America, despite their predictions failing to materialize. Yet, followers continued to embrace and expand upon these theories. Who are these devoted listeners, and how do they reconcile their beliefs with the reality around them? Journalist Mike Rothschild, an expert on conspiracy theories, has gathered insights from QAnon converts, skeptics, and experts to explore the movement and its followers. In his work, he traces the origins of QAnon, its rise within right-wing media, the impact on families, and the storming of the Capitol. Despite Trump's loss, the movement persists, appealing to a broad demographic, including Baby Boomers and Millennial mothers. Rothschild argues that dismissing QAnon's madness is unproductive; understanding its roots and impact is crucial, as the movement and its dark theories show no signs of fading.