Stewart Rhodes, founder of the far-right Oath Keepers militia, announced a relaunch of the group last week, despite its near-collapse following the January 6th Capitol attack and subsequent arrests of its members. The effort appears to be failing, with little enthusiasm from former members, experts, or even the extremist circles where the group once thrived.
Rhodes, speaking to the Gateway Pundit, framed the relaunch as a response to an alleged “insurrection by the left” in US cities. He claimed President Trump could legally mobilize the Oath Keepers as a militia under federal statutes. However, this claim has been met with indifference and skepticism.
Lack of Support from Within
Interviews with former Oath Keepers reveal widespread disinterest. Janet Arroyo, who once led a chapter in Arizona, said she hadn’t heard from Rhodes in six years and has no intention of rejoining. “The DC stunt scared a lot of patriots into hiding,” she stated bluntly.
Jessica Watkins, an army veteran sentenced to eight and a half years for her role in the Capitol attack (later commuted), hadn’t even heard about the relaunch when contacted by reporters. She pointed out that convicted felons like herself are ineligible for membership anyway.
Kelly Meggs, who headed the Florida chapter and was convicted of seditious conspiracy, expressed concern about being targeted again if Democrats regain power. He said he would only participate in disaster relief efforts, not street confrontations.
Online Chatter Reveals Indifference
A review of right-wing social media and message boards shows minimal discussion about the relaunch. Experts note that the Oath Keepers’ brand is toxic after the January 6th fallout. Jon Lewis, a researcher at George Washington University, stated, “There’s no real appetite for the Oath Keepers in 2025. Why would any extremist trust an insurrectionist who got his followers arrested?”
Financial Struggles Highlight Desperation
Rhodes is soliciting donations through a crowdfunding campaign, aiming for $75,000. After a week, the campaign has raised barely $1,000, with most contributions coming from a few individuals, including the Gateway Pundit’s Jim Hoft.
The relaunched website remains incomplete, with a blank “About” page and a paused ticket sale for a “Never Surrender” event that appears to be run by the Young Republicans of Houston, not the Oath Keepers.
Rhodes’ History and Current Stance
Rhodes founded the Oath Keepers in 2009, fueled by conspiracy theories about the Obama administration. The group gained prominence during the Trump era, with members providing security at rallies and participating in the January 6th attack.
Though Trump commuted Rhodes’ 18-year sentence, his conviction stands. Rhodes now advocates for deploying troops against US citizens, citing the legality of using the National Guard as a militia.
Conclusion
The Oath Keepers relaunch is failing due to a lack of support from former members, financial struggles, and a damaged reputation. Rhodes’ efforts to revive the group appear desperate and unlikely to succeed, as the extremist landscape has moved on. The group’s future remains uncertain, with little indication of a viable path forward
