Oath Keepers vs. Patriot Prayer

Attribute	Oath Keepers	Patriot Prayer
Ideology	Constitutionalism, anti-government	Pro-Trump, conservative
Membership	Primarily current and former military, law enforcement	Open to all supporters
Leadership	Founded by Stewart Rhodes	Founded by Joey Gibson
Activities	Focus on upholding oath to defend Constitution	Organize rallies and protests

Background

Oath Keepers is a far-right anti-government organization founded in 2009 by Stewart Rhodes. The group is composed mainly of current and former military, police, and first responders who pledge to uphold their oath to the Constitution. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, is a conservative group founded in 2016 by Joey Gibson. The group describes itself as a pro-Trump and pro-freedom organization that aims to promote free speech and the Second Amendment.

Beliefs and Goals

Oath Keepers believe in the importance of upholding the Constitution and protecting individual rights. They often focus on issues related to gun rights, government overreach, and civil liberties. The group has been involved in various protests and demonstrations across the country. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, emphasizes the need for free speech and the right to assemble peacefully. They have organized rallies and events to support conservative causes and challenge what they see as left-wing extremism.

Membership and Structure

Oath Keepers has a structured membership system with chapters in different states. The group has a hierarchical leadership structure and members are required to take an oath to defend the Constitution. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, has a more decentralized structure with a focus on individual activism. The group encourages members to take action on their own and does not have a formal membership process.

Controversies

Oath Keepers have faced criticism for their association with far-right and extremist groups. Some members have been involved in armed standoffs with law enforcement and have been accused of promoting conspiracy theories. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, has been accused of attracting white supremacists and other extremist elements to their events. The group has also been involved in violent clashes with counter-protesters.

Approach to Protests

Oath Keepers often show up at protests and demonstrations heavily armed, which has raised concerns about their intentions and potential for violence. The group has been criticized for their confrontational tactics and for escalating tensions at events. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, has a more peaceful approach to protests and rallies. They emphasize the importance of non-violent activism and have called for unity and dialogue.

Public Perception

Oath Keepers are often viewed as a radical and extremist group by mainstream media and political commentators. They have been labeled as a militia group and have been the subject of various investigations by law enforcement. Patriot Prayer, on the other hand, has received mixed reactions from the public. Some see them as a legitimate conservative organization while others view them as a front for hate groups.

Conclusion

While Oath Keepers and Patriot Prayer share some similarities in their conservative beliefs and activism, they differ in their approach to protests, membership structure, and public perception. Oath Keepers have a more structured organization with a focus on upholding the Constitution, while Patriot Prayer has a decentralized structure and emphasizes free speech and peaceful activism. Both groups have faced controversies and criticism, but they continue to be active in promoting their respective causes.