The “deep state” is a conspiracy theory which suggests that collusion exists within the U.S. political system and a hidden government within the legitimately elected government.
Origin of “Deep State”
The term “deep state” was originally used to describe a shadow government in Turkey that disseminated propaganda and engaged in violence to undermine the governing party.
However, the concept has gained prominence in contemporary political discourse, particularly in relation to the United States.
During President Donald Trump’s administration the term has come to refer to an organized resistance within the government, working to subvert Trump’s presidency.
Trump allies blame career bureaucrats, many of whom they see as loyal to former President Barack Obama, for leaking damaging information to the news media.
A Washington Post article suggested that people close to Trump believe these longtime government workers amount to a “Deep State” that could undermine his presidency.
Rep. Steve King (R-IA) told the New York Times: “We are talking about the emergence of a Deep State led by Barack Obama, and that is something that we should prevent… I think it’s really the Deep State versus the president, the duly elected president.”
Former White House adviser David Gergen told Time the term was appropriated by former Trump campaign manager Steve Bannon in order to delegitimize Trump’s critics.
The concept of the deep state suggests the existence of a hidden power structure operating behind the scenes, exerting control and influence over government affairs.
It is often associated with the notion that un-elected or unaccountable actors within the bureaucracy hold significant sway over policy-making, security, or intelligence operations.
These individuals or institutions are believed to have their own agendas and may manipulate or undermine elected officials to further their own interests.
Use of “Deep State” in a sentence:
- Conspiracy theorists claim that the deep state, a secretive network of powerful bureaucrats and intelligence officials, manipulates government policies behind the scenes, aiming to maintain their control and undermine the will of the people.
- The president’s supporters believe that leaks and bureaucratic resistance to his agenda are evidence of the deep state’s existence, alleging that entrenched officials are actively working against his administration’s objectives.
- Critics argue that the notion of the deep state is a baseless conspiracy theory used to deflect attention from legitimate policy debates and undermine public trust in democratic institutions, emphasizing the importance of accountability and transparency in political decision-making.