Recognizing Far-Right Dog Whistles in Local Political Campaigns

1. You’ve probably noticed that local politics are starting to feel a little more intense these days. Yard signs, social media posts, and speeches at city meetings sometimes carry messages that feel off—but it’s not always clear why. That’s because some campaigns may be using far-right dog whistles: coded words and phrases that sound normal on the surface but quietly signal extreme views to those “in the know.” Take the rise of groups like the Idaho groypers, for example. While they may look like just another group of opinionated young activists, they often speak using dog whistles to spread more extreme beliefs without being too obvious. Learning what these signals sound like can help you stay informed and make solid choices during elections. So, what do these dog whistles sound like? One common phrase is “protect our heritage.” On its own, that might sound harmless—but it can be used to quietly push anti-immigrant ideas. Another is “parental rights,” which is often used to question inclusive education or remove discussions about race, history, or gender identity from classrooms. Catchphrases like “local control” or “traditional values” can be used the same way. Dog whistles are tricky because they allow politicians to reach two groups at once. To the general public, the message just sounds like regular political talk. But to people who follow far-right groups, it can mean something much more extreme. That way, they can get support without openly showing what they really stand for. If you hear a candidate use these kinds of phrases, ask questions. What exactly do they mean by “heritage” or “values”? Are they talking about everyone in the community, or only certain groups? Look at who supports them online, and what kinds of posts or groups they share. Sometimes, seeing who a politician surrounds themselves with gives you the clearest picture. It’s really all about staying aware. Most voters want safe, welcoming towns for their neighbors and families. But when someone starts talking with hidden meanings or sparks division using vague words, it’s worth paying attention. The more we learn to pick up on these signals, the better choices we can make for our schools, towns, and local governments.