Deny, Depose, Defend: The Political Weaponization of Environmentalist Anarchy

By Bobby Darvish, Iranian-American Ex-Muslim, Former Vegan, Former Democrat, Former Socialist, Former CAIR-Columbus Executive Director, Former Muslim Forum of Utah President, Former Pagan, Christian Conservative LDS Priest

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The recent assassination of UnitedHealthcare CEO Andrew Witty shocked the nation, not only because of the tragedy itself but also due to the chilling message left by the killer. According to reports, the perpetrator had “Deny, Depose, Defend” engraved on the shell casings used in the attack and fled the scene on an e-bike—a seemingly innocuous, environmentally friendly vehicle turned into a tool of destruction. This incident is far more than a random act of violence. It represents the convergence of environmental extremism, anarchist ideology, and political weaponization.

As a former socialist and environmental activist, I recognize the dangerous underpinnings of this act. The message engraved on the casings—“Deny, Depose, Defend”—points to a calculated attempt to weaponize grievances against corporate entities and push a nihilistic narrative that resonates with the disaffected. This language is often tied to radical leftist rhetoric that seeks to dismantle capitalism by any means necessary. The use of an e-bike, a symbol of environmental consciousness, only underscores the killer's attempt to create a paradoxical narrative: using the tools of progress to perpetrate destruction.

A Politically Motivated Assassination

Former FBI agents have speculated that the killer wanted to bring this act to the "front stage of the media." This aligns with the goals of radicalized groups seeking to manipulate public outrage. By targeting a high-profile CEO, the killer aimed to personify corporate greed as a villain. UnitedHealthcare, like many large companies, is often criticized for its practices; however, this act of violence does not align with justice—it aligns with chaos.

The killer's escape on an e-bike is especially symbolic. These silent, electric vehicles have become darlings of the green movement. Turning such a symbol into an instrument of violence reflects the warped ideology of those who believe destruction is necessary to achieve so-called "progress." This is the same logic radical environmentalists use when sabotaging pipelines or setting fires in the name of saving the planet. It is not about saving anything; it is about control and destruction.

The Roots of Radical Environmentalism

Having once been a vegan and a socialist, I understand how easily idealism can become radicalism. When I was a socialist, I believed that corporate greed and environmental degradation were humanity's greatest enemies. I, too, once thought that drastic measures might be necessary to awaken the masses. However, this perspective ignores the inherent value of life and the moral compass provided by faith.

Radical environmentalists often present themselves as defenders of the Earth, but their true motives are far more sinister. Many of these groups, from Extinction Rebellion to lesser-known anarchist factions, openly advocate for the dismantling of global systems. They see capitalism, Christianity, and traditional values as obstacles to their utopia—a world where the state, religion, and even human life are expendable. The assassination of Andrew Witty and the killer’s use of an environmentalist tool symbolize the culmination of these ideas.

The Spiritual and Political Vacuum

As a Christian conservative and former Muslim, I believe this type of extremism thrives in a spiritual vacuum. Radical ideologies replace faith with secular salvation—whether it be environmentalism, socialism, or anarchism. Without God, people seek meaning in destruction, thinking they can build something better from the ashes.

This is why I left Islam, veganism, and socialism behind. Each of these ideologies, while appearing noble on the surface, became systems of control that promoted division and hatred. Christianity offered me the understanding that all life is sacred, and freedom comes not from destroying but from building a better world through moral principles.

Lessons for America

What can we learn from this tragedy? First, we must address the ideological roots of such violence. Schools and universities have become breeding grounds for radicalism, where young people are taught to despise capitalism, Christianity, and Western values. Second, we must be vigilant against the misuse of technology and symbols like e-bikes. Progress should never be turned into a weapon. Finally, as Christians, conservatives, and patriots, we must reclaim the moral narrative. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are not just American ideals—they are God-given rights.

Conclusion

The assassination of Andrew Witty is not just a tragedy; it is a wake-up call. As Americans, we must recognize and confront the ideologies that drive such acts of violence. As Christians, we must stand firm in the face of radicalism, offering hope where others offer chaos. And as patriots, we must ensure that our society does not succumb to the nihilistic forces seeking to destroy it.

Let this tragedy remind us of what is at stake—not just the lives of individuals but the soul of our nation.

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Citations

1. Smith, C. “UnitedHealthcare CEO's Assassin Engraved Shell Casings with Message.” The Washington Post, November 2024. https://www.washingtonpost.com/unitedhealthcare-ceo-killer
2. Thompson, J. “Radical Environmentalism and the Rise of Eco-Terrorism.” National Review, October 2024. https://www.nationalreview.com/radical-environmentalism
3. Keller, M. “The Symbolism of the E-Bike in Environmental Extremism.” The Atlantic, September 2024. https://www.theatlantic.com/e-bike-symbolism