Bizarre Cultists Say Queen A Drug Pusher,... (Press, 11 December 1986)

On 11 December 1986, Lyndon Larouche, a fringe political figure in the United States, continues to face significant challenges as he leads a controversial organisation labelled by some, like the Heritage Foundation, as one of the most bizarre cults in American history. Recently, Larouche's proposals have met with overwhelming rejection, including a failed ballot measure in California that sought to impose quarantine measures on A.I.D.S. victims. Additionally, his candidates in Illinois elections received minimal support, and a major law enforcement raid on his Virginia estate led to serious legal troubles for his aides, who now face credit card fraud charges. Lyndon Larouche, 64, has shifted dramatically in his ideological stance from Marxist roots in the 1970s to a far-right agenda. The National Democratic Policy Committee, which he founded, promotes a military build-up and supports President Ronald Reagan's Strategic Defence Initiative. Despite an estimated following of around 1,000 adherents, Larouche's organisation has garnered significant media attention due to its aggressive tactics and controversial claims. Among his bizarre assertions, Larouche has accused the Queen of the United Kingdom of being a drug dealer and has named former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger as a Soviet agent of influence. The political landscape has seen Larouche's candidates causing confusion within the Democratic Party. In April, two Larouchian candidates surprisingly secured nominations for significant positions in Illinois, leading to concern among Democrats who feared their association with such figures could damage their party's image. Although both candidates ultimately lost the elections, their presence on the ballot was seen as detrimental to Democratic chances, particularly impacting gubernatorial candidate Adlai Stevenson. Larouche conducts his activities from a heavily protected estate in Leesburg, Virginia, where he has acquired a publishing business and bookstore, creating a fortress-like environment. Allegations of intimidation against community members have surfaced, with opponents reporting threats and discomfort in their interactions with Larouche's followers. The federal investigation into Larouche led to a significant raid by over 275 armed law enforcement officials who seized extensive financial records from his estate. This action stemmed from a grand jury indictment that included numerous counts of fraud against Larouche's group, which allegedly defrauded thousands of contributors. Claims have emerged of deceptive fundraising tactics by Larouche's organisation, including large withdrawals from contributors' credit cards and false promises regarding loan repayments. In light of these developments, Larouche's spokesperson has vehemently denied the allegations, framing the federal actions as part of a conspiracy against him. The ongoing legal troubles and the rejections faced by his political propositions highlight the isolation of Larouche in the current political atmosphere, even as he continues to publish and promote his controversial beliefs.

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