American Reich explores rising hate crimes and the Blaze Bernstein murder

Published: Saturday, January 24, 2026 at 3:20 pm

American Reich: A Look at Rising Hate and the Blaze Bernstein Murder

A new book, *American Reich: A Murder in Orange County, Neo-Nazis, and a New Age of Hate*, examines the rise of hate crimes in the United States, focusing on the murder of Blaze Bernstein in 2018. The book, by Eric Lichtblau, explores the case of Bernstein, a gay man who was murdered by a former high school classmate who was a member of a Neo-Nazi group. Lichtblau uses this local tragedy to illustrate the broader national trend of increasing hate and violence.

The book delves into the historical context of hate in Orange County, tracing it back to the influence of the Ku Klux Klan and the John Birch Society. Lichtblau highlights the area's conservative history and the political shifts that have occurred, including the election of Democrats to Congress in 2018, which led to a backlash from the far right. The book also examines the role of President Donald Trump in fueling hate, noting that his rhetoric has provided "oxygen" to those on the edge.

Lichtblau also points to the impact of social media platforms, which have relaxed their guardrails on free speech, as contributing to the spread of hate. The author interviewed Bernstein's family and friends, as well as neo-Nazis, to understand the motivations behind hate crimes. The book also explores instances of psychological harassment experienced by minority families in Orange County, highlighting the challenges faced by local law enforcement in addressing such cases.

BNN's Perspective:

The book's focus on the Blaze Bernstein case and its connection to broader national trends is a timely and important examination of the rise of hate crimes. While the book highlights the role of political rhetoric and social media in fueling hate, it also offers a glimpse of hope through community action. It is essential to acknowledge the complexity of the issue and the need for a multifaceted approach to combatting hate.

Keywords: Hate crimes, Blaze Bernstein, Neo-Nazis, Orange County, Donald Trump, social media, racism, violence, extremism, political rhetoric, American Reich, Eric Lichtblau, murder, anti-Semitism, Islamophobia.

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