The Leader of QAnon Conspiracy Theory Returns

The Jan. 6 attack on Capitol seemed to be the culmination of the movement. 

The attackers stormed the Capitol wearing QAnon Tshirts and signs that read “Q sent me.” A poll at the time revealed that one fifth of Americans believed the conspiracy theory.

It was clear that Q’s worst nightmares, about Trump trying to arrest and try Democrats in a series of military tribunals and public executions, would not come true when President Biden was sworn in as president. Q’s account stopped posting shortly after Donald Trump’s defeat in 2020.

QAnons have been limping along for the past months, but this week it seemed to be bursting again with a series of Supreme Court rulings that culminated in Friday’s decision ending the constitutional right to abortion. The decision was a significant turning point in the country, which could bring Q’s predictions to life for QAnon supporters.

Bond Benton, an associate Professor at Montclair State University and a student of QAnon, said that “Leveraging cultural and social instability has kind of been a hallmark of QAnon for a very long while.” “This adds fuel to the fire and amplifies the fear people have about the future.

An anonymous user on 8kun inquired why Q had been gone so long. The account replied, “It had got to be done that way.”

The account was posted again, with the following message: “Are You Ready to Serve Your Country Again?” Keep your oath.”

Ron Watkins (a 30-year-old computer programmer who was once administrator of 8kun) is returning to QAnon at a crucial time. He is widely believed by many to be behind Q. A HBO documentary linked him to the account and two forensic analyses revealed empirical similarities in their writing styles.

Mr. Watkins is seeking a seat in Arizona’s second congressional district. After raising little money and giving an inept debate performance, state strategists expect him to lose the race.

Q. has been denied any involvement by Mr. Watkins. He didn’t immediately respond to a request for comment Saturday.

Daniela Peterka Benton, an associate professor at Montclair State University, has also studied QAnon. She cautioned against putting too much logic into Q’s return now. This suggests that the goal of the person is to simply “see the world burning.”

She said, “I don’t believe this person has any plans.” “But they seem to really enjoy the fact that they have so many power.”