Why Did People Start To Criticize Palmer? The Rise Of Backlash

The plan’s constitutionality was questioned, and Palmer and Hoover faced criticism for their overzealous domestic security efforts.

Many people felt that Palmer and Hoover’s actions went too far in trying to stop radical and leftist groups. Their overreaching efforts included the arrest of thousands of people without proper evidence or due process. Many of these arrests were based on suspicion alone, and the individuals were often held without any chance to prove their innocence. This sparked widespread outrage and led to a backlash against the Palmer Raids. The public began to see these actions as unnecessary and even tyrannical.

The lack of evidence and the use of force against peaceful protesters also contributed to the criticism. The Palmer Raids were seen by many as a violation of civil liberties, and the methods used were condemned as un-American. The controversy surrounding the Palmer Raids eventually led to Palmer’s resignation and Hoover’s rise to power in the FBI. Despite the criticism, Hoover would continue to use similar tactics throughout his career, often targeting groups considered subversive to the government.