The Image That Defines Trump's Reign of Terror Is ... a Subway Sandwich?
slate.com -- Friday, August 15, 2025, 5:48:31 AM Eastern Daylight Time
Categories: Presidential Campaigns, Political Protests & Rallies, Immigration Policy & Border Issues
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An unlikely folk hero has emerged in Washington this week. Sean Dunn, a blond 37-year-old in a pink button-down and New Balance sneakers, was captured on video Sunday night screaming at some of the federal agents who have begun patrolling the city on Donald Trump's orders. "Fuck you, fascists!" he yelled. "Shame!"
After following the group across the street, he got right up in the face of a Customs and Border Protection agent and engaged in some vigorous taunting. Then, just as Dunn was turning to leave, he seemed to think better of it. He whipped back around, wound up, and threw his footlong Subway sub at the agent, hitting him square in the chest.
In the days since, as Dunn drew felony charges for assaulting a federal officer and was fired from his job at the Department of Justice, the video has been passed around on social media and group texts across the District of Columbia with unbridled glee. Dunn's "assault with a deli weapon," as one Redditor dubbed it, has been celebrated as evidence of the city's indomitable spirit and as a rousing call to protest the incursion of the National Guard and federal law enforcement under the false pretense of a crime wave.
At a moment when many District residents are seething with rage at the occupying forces taking over their disenfranchised hometown, watching Dunn release his anger via hoagie felt like a gift. All current accounts point to a harmless expression of frustration: an absurd, desperate act of resistance for this absurd, desperate time -- perpetrated by a DOJ employee, no less, who looked indistinguishable from all the other bros roaming the nightlife corridor where he staged his revolt.
It's also a ripe metaphor for everything Trump is doing to D.C. right now. The armed agents chased after Dunn and arrested him not because the sandwich toss was dangerous but because it was defiant. Same with the president's war on Democratic jurisdictions, which he is eager to subjugate with military force. Cloaked in bogus claims of lawlessness and widespread violence, it's an effort to seize control from Black mayors, to force his anti-immigrant agenda on cities that have rejected it, and to punish Americans who didn't vote for him.
There's a reason you're allowed to take a turkey club onto an airplane: Sandwiches are not recognized as weapons. Unless you're allergic to the peanuts in a PB&J, they are utterly harmless portable meals, even when projectile. You can see this quite clearly in the video of the encounter. The sandwich bends in its wrapper under the force of the CBP agent's bulletproof (and, evidently, sandwichproof) vest. A few bits of lettuce or other toppings fly out; the sandwich is injured. The agent barely even flinches.
Logic-bound minds understand that a hurled sandwich is not a danger. (If a police officer saw one civilian throw a sandwich at another on the street, what's the likelihood they'd make an immediate arrest?) But by the warped reasoning of law enforcement institutions, any show of disrespect or disobedience is taken as a physical threat. It's not about preventing actual harm -- Dunn bolted away after throwing his sub, seemingly posing no further risk to the CBP agent. It's about enforcing a punitive power hierarchy that places law enforcement comfort and authority above all else.
In a photo taken of Dunn's arrest on Sunday night, at least 13 officers crowd around a street corner to apprehend him, a breathtaking show of force against a man who threw a piece of bread. The entire incident is rife with such ludicrous disproportionality. The video still of a submarine sandwich bouncing off a bulletproof vest will be an indelible image of this administration's response to political opposition. It's the modern-day version of a row of bayonets facing down an anti-war demonstrator with a chrysanthemum, with an added veneer of 2025 stupidity courtesy of Subway. (Subway did not return a request for comment.)
Dunn seems to recognize that his arrest was ridiculous, particularly amid the rampant citywide crime sprees that the Trump administration insists are afoot. According to the criminal complaint filed with the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, after the officers caught up with Dunn, he told one of them, "I did it. I threw a sandwich." It begs to be read in a cheeky deadpan.
Until he gets milkshake ducked, Dunn and the fan art he's inspired will stand in for all the other ways Trump and his agents are cracking down on dissent by claiming that it's dangerous. There's no crime emergency in D.C. or in any of the other cities the president is promising to target. His goal isn't to bring justice to victims or make cities safer; it's to abuse his perceived enemies and quash dissent.
That's why those 13 officers weren't off investigating a murder or carjacking on Sunday night. They were spending their taxpayer-funded time chasing down a man who'd already relinquished his only weapon, which was probably already soggy when he used it.
Sign Our PetitionThe incident involving Sean Dunn and the federal agents in Washington, D.C., serves as a striking embodiment of the ongoing tensions between local communities and federal authority, particularly during the Trump administration. Dunn's bold and seemingly absurd act of throwing a Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection agent has become a viral symbol of defiance against what many perceive as an overreach of federal power into local governance. This moment encapsulates not only the frustration felt by many residents of D.C. but also highlights the broader struggle against authoritarianism and the militarization of policing in urban spaces, particularly in cities that overwhelmingly voted against Trump.
Historically, the relationship between federal power and local governance has often been fraught with tension, particularly in times of political upheaval. The use of federal agents in cities like Portland and Chicago during the Trump administration raised alarm bells about the erosion of local autonomy and the implications of federal intervention in urban affairs. The invocation of a “crime wave” to justify such actions echoes a long-standing narrative used by those in power to justify over-policing and the deployment of military-grade forces against marginalized communities. Dunn's sandwich toss, while humorous on the surface, symbolizes the anger and helplessness felt by many who see their cities transformed into battlegrounds in a culture war driven by fear and misinformation.
Dunn's act can be interpreted as a metaphor for the resistance against a government that seeks to impose its will on communities that have rejected its agenda. By targeting cities led by Democratic mayors, often in communities of color, the Trump administration's strategy has been to enforce a punitive approach to governance under the guise of restoring law and order. This reflects a longstanding trend in U.S. history where marginalized communities, particularly Black and immigrant populations, have been subjected to disproportionate policing and surveillance, reinforcing systemic inequalities rather than addressing the root causes of crime and social unrest.
The playful nature of Dunn's protest also serves to underscore a critical point about dissent: it can take many forms, from organized marches to spontaneous acts of defiance. In a moment when the political discourse can often feel overwhelmingly grim, moments of levity—like tossing a sandwich—offer a refreshing reminder that resistance can also be joyous and absurd. This resonates with the long-standing tradition of using humor and satire as tools for social critique, from the political cartoons of the 18th century to contemporary memes that critique authority. Such expressions are vital in mobilizing public sentiment and fostering a sense of solidarity among those who feel disenfranchised.
Moreover, the harsh consequences faced by Dunn—losing his job and facing felony charges—highlight the lengths to which authorities will go to suppress dissent. The response to his act of defiance underscores the precarious nature of free expression in a climate where government actors are increasingly intolerant of criticism or resistance. It serves as a reminder that the stakes are high in the ongoing struggle for justice and equity, and that ordinary individuals can find themselves in the crosshairs of an aggressive state apparatus simply for speaking out against injustices.
In conclusion, the Subway sandwich incident is more than an isolated event; it is a microcosm of the broader battle against authoritarianism, systemic racism, and the militarization of urban law enforcement. As communities across the nation grapple with the implications of federal overreach and the inequities embedded within our justice system, Dunn's act of resistance calls for a deeper reflection on the nature of dissent, the right to protest, and the ongoing fight for social justice. It serves as a rallying point for those committed to holding power accountable and ensuring that the voices of the many are not drowned out by the tyranny of the few.
The recent episode involving Sean Dunn, a federal employee turned sandwich-wielding protestor, has become a significant cultural touchstone in the ongoing struggle between federal authority and local governance, particularly in cities with Democratic leadership. Dunn's act of defiance—hurling a Subway sandwich at a Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agent—has emerged as a symbol of the frustrations faced by many residents in Washington, D.C. His actions are not merely about the absurdity of the moment but encapsulate the broader discontent with the Trump administration’s militarized approach toward urban areas that have politically diverged from his agenda. This incident should serve as a rallying point for those concerned about the erosion of democratic norms under the guise of law and order.
Historically, the federal government's intervention in local matters has been a contentious issue. From the Civil Rights Movement, where federal forces were deployed to ensure the enforcement of civil rights laws, to the present-day militarization of police forces in response to localized protests against police brutality, the tension between federal oversight and local autonomy continues to shape American society. Trump’s administration epitomizes this trend, often using the specter of crime to justify the deployment of federal agents to cities like Portland and D.C. This context is crucial for understanding Dunn's actions; they are not an isolated incident but rather a reaction to a long-standing pattern of authoritarian governance that seeks to suppress dissent.
So, what can Americans do in light of such events? First and foremost, it is imperative to engage in meaningful dialogue about the role of federal authority in local affairs. Community organizing and grassroots activism can empower citizens to take a stand against overreach and advocate for policies that prioritize local governance and accountability. This includes supporting initiatives aimed at demilitarizing the police, investing in community services, and ensuring that local voices are prioritized over federal mandates. By fostering community engagement, citizens can reclaim agency over their neighborhoods and push back against the narrative of lawlessness that often accompanies federal interventions.
Moreover, it is essential to educate ourselves and others about the implications of these actions on marginalized communities. The use of federal forces often disproportionately affects communities of color and those already disenfranchised by systemic inequalities. By highlighting the ways in which these interventions serve to perpetuate existing power dynamics, activists can frame their arguments in a way that resonates with a broader audience. This involves connecting the dots between federal overreach and issues like housing insecurity, healthcare access, and educational disparities—issues that are often sidelined in discussions about crime and public safety.
Lastly, leveraging social media and other platforms to amplify the voices of those resisting federal overreach can be a powerful tool for change. The viral nature of Dunn’s sandwich throw demonstrates how quickly actions can resonate with the public and inspire solidarity. By sharing stories of resistance and organizing virtual and in-person events, activists can create a collective momentum that challenges the narrative imposed by those in power. This moment offers an opportunity to reframe the conversation around federal intervention and to advocate for a society that values democratic principles over authoritarian control.
In conclusion, the incident involving Sean Dunn serves as a microcosm of the larger struggle against federal overreach and the militarization of urban spaces. As Americans, we must take action by engaging in dialogue, advocating for local governance, educating ourselves and those around us, and amplifying the voices of dissent. This is not just about a sandwich thrown in a moment of frustration; it is about standing up against a regime that seeks to undermine democratic values and the autonomy of communities across the nation. By doing so, we can work toward a future where the voices of the many are not drowned out by the forceful actions of the few.
The recent instance of Sean Dunn throwing a sandwich at a federal agent during a protest highlights the growing frustration many people feel towards governmental overreach and the militarization of law enforcement, particularly in cities with progressive leadership. This event can serve as a rallying point for individuals looking to advocate for their communities and push back against policies that seek to undermine local governance and civil rights. Below are some specific actions you can take to support the cause of local autonomy and protest against federal overreach.
### What Can We Personally Do About This?
1. **Raise Awareness:** - Share information about the incident on social media platforms to engage friends and family in discussions about federal overreach and local governance. - Create or participate in online forums or groups that discuss these issues, emphasizing the importance of community voices.
2. **Support Local Activism:** - Join local activist groups that align with your beliefs. Find out what initiatives they are currently pursuing and how you can contribute.
3. **Engage Politically:** - Write to elected officials to express your concerns about federal intervention in local matters.
4. **Participate in Protests:** - Attend local protests or community meetings that advocate for civil rights and local governance. Ensure to follow safety protocols and guidelines.
### Exact Actions You Can Take
1. **Sign Petitions:** - Look for online petitions aimed at opposing federal policies that infringe on local governance. Websites like Change.org can provide various petitions to sign and share. - Example: A petition opposing the deployment of federal law enforcement in cities can be found at [Change.org](https://www.change.org).
2. **Contact Local Elected Officials:** - Write to your city council members or representatives. Here’s a template for what you might say: ``` Subject: Opposing Federal Overreach
Dear [Official's Name],
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the recent actions taken by federal authorities in our city. The deployment of federal agents under the guise of addressing crime undermines the authority of our local government and disrupts the trust between the community and law enforcement. I urge you to advocate for our city's autonomy and oppose any measures that seek to impose federal control over our community.
Thank you for your attention to this crucial matter.
Sincerely, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Email] ```
- **Example Contacts:** - **Mayor of Washington, D.C.: Muriel Bowser** - Email: [mayor@dc.gov](mailto:mayor@dc.gov) - Address: 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20004
- **D.C. City Council:** - Email addresses for all council members can be found at: [D.C. Council Members](https://dccouncil.us/councilmembers) - Address: 1350 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Suite 504, Washington, D.C. 20004
3. **Support Legal Defense Funds:** - Consider donating to or fundraising for legal defense organizations that support individuals facing charges for protesting against federal overreach, like the National Lawyers Guild.
4. **Organize Community Events:** - Arrange local events to discuss the impact of federal policies on community safety and governance. Partner with local advocacy groups to enhance visibility.
5. **Contact Media Outlets:** - Write op-eds or letters to the editor of local newspapers expressing your views on the incident and the broader implications of federal intervention.
6. **Stay Informed:** - Subscribe to newsletters or follow organizations that focus on civil liberties, local governance, and police reform to stay updated on issues affecting your community.
By taking these specific actions, individuals can contribute to a larger movement that seeks to protect local governance and civil rights, ensuring that community voices are heard and respected in the face of federal overreach.