Inside the KKK plot to kill Barack Obama

In a startling revelation, Joe Moore, a former member of the Ku Klux Klan, details his undercover work in the organization in his memoir, "White Robes and Broken Badges." Initiated into the Klan with a fabricated military background, Moore was driven by a strong sense of patriotism and a desire to thwart violence against then-Senator Barack Obama. His infiltration marked the FBI's first significant operation against the KKK, where he attended cross burnings and witnessed acts of brutality while secretly recording the group's activities. Moore's dual life took a psychological toll, as he employed method acting techniques to maintain his cover, including listening to music that resonated with his conflicted emotions. He describes the struggle of balancing his undercover persona with his family life, often resorting to breathing exercises to cope with the stress. However, his mission took a dangerous turn when he exposed a conspiracy involving Klan members plotting to murder a Black man, leading to severe personal repercussions, including the loss of his home and friendships. Reflecting on his experiences, Moore warns of the deep divisions within American society, attributing some of this fracture to the rhetoric of former President Donald Trump. He emphasizes that extremist groups have adapted their tactics, blending violence with political maneuvering, which poses a significant threat to democracy. Moore's insights serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating hate and division in the nation.