Against All Enemies

Against All Enemies delves into the story of Kevin Doherty, a U.S. Army veteran and former police officer who was involved in the January 6, 2021, insurrection at the United States Capitol. The documentary film, directed by Michael Kirk and Mike Wiser, attempts to explain the paradox of a service member who swore to protect the country's democracy yet participated in an event that challenged its very fabric. Kevin Doherty's background sets the stage for understanding the complex factors that contributed to his involvement. Born and raised in a small town in Pennsylvania, Doherty enlisted in the U.S. Army in 2004 and served multiple tours in Iraq. Upon returning to the States, he went to work as a police officer in his hometown. With a strong sense of patriotism and loyalty, Doherty was deeply invested in the idea of American greatness. However, this fervent patriotism eventually led him down a path of radicalism, fueled by a deep distrust of the federal government and a growing fascination with conspiracy theories. The film explores how social media platforms, particularly those on the right-wing extremities of the internet, can spread misinformation and further radicalize individuals. Doherty became increasingly entrenched in these online communities, which presented him with a world view that diverged sharply from objective reality. As he delved deeper into this virtual world, he began to lose touch with the people and experiences that grounded him in reality. Against All Enemies examines the phenomenon of "civic nationalism," a concept coined by French philosopher Ernest Renan. This type of nationalism seeks to maintain a sense of unity and shared identity among citizens, often through the cultivation of myths, nostalgia, and historical reinterpretation. In the United States, civic nationalism has been an essential aspect of national identity, fostering loyalty to the nation and its institutions. However, Doherty's case raises questions about how civic nationalism can be co-opted and distorted by extremist ideologies. The film also highlights the role of the military and veteran community in shaping the identities and values of those involved. Many individuals, like Doherty, find a sense of meaning and purpose in their military service. As they transition back to civilian life, they may struggle to reconcile their wartime experiences with the civilian world. Social media platforms and extremist groups often prey on these vulnerabilities, using narratives of victimhood and perceived injustices to draw veterans into their orbit. In exploring the psychological and societal factors that contributed to Doherty's radicalization, Against All Enemies presents a nuanced and multidisciplinary analysis. By combining interviews with experts, archival research, and a detailed examination of Doherty's personal life, the film offers a compelling portrait of a complex individual. This nuanced portrayal serves as a warning about the dangers of radicalization and the fragility of democratic institutions. Ultimately, Against All Enemies serves as a thought-provoking exploration of the complexities surrounding the January 6, 2021, insurrection. By examining the lives and experiences of individuals like Kevin Doherty, the documentary sheds light on the dark corners of American society and encourages viewers to grapple with the fundamental questions that underlie this narrative: How can service members who took an oath to protect the country's democracy become involved in events that put that democracy at risk? And what does this say about the state of civic nationalism and the health of American society?