If you have been on TikTok lately, you might’ve seen a new trend sneaking its way into your FYP. No, it’s not another 6-7 meme or a go-see outfit either. Instead, it’s something people are calling the alt-left pipeline.Â
When I first heard of it, it was clear the phrase was a spoof of the alt-right pipeline, which is basically when creators in industries like gaming and fitness feed extreme political rhetoric to indoctrinate impressionable viewers — often young people. But on TikTok, this new version completely flips the script, with creators sharing their progressive ideals in order to (jokingly or not) recruit more members on the left.
The alt-left pipeline seemingly kicked off on Sept. 18, when sports commentator and TikTok creator @its.strez said in a video, “That’s it. I’m starting the alt-left pipeline. So if you like football, hey, what’s up! Also, everyone should have healthcare.” It was as simple as that.Â
Other creators have hopped onto the trend in the days since then, with most videos following the same format: A creator starts discussing what they like and what they do in life — workouts, sports, their blue collar job — before moving onto statements about their progressive values. The videos are fast and to the point, showing that it is truly easy to stand up for what you believe in, without resorting to deception or propaganda.Â
So far the response has been overwhelmingly positive for alt-left pipeline creators. Under @alabamafella’s video, in which he discusses his stances on healthcare, individuality, and racism, commentators rallied together to support the idea of normalizing “progressive” views. “Funny how alt left pipeline is basic human decency,” @youmaycallmecolleen commented, while @MapsandFacts took it into a different (yet highly relatable) direction with, “What a specific thirst trap I have conjured.”
Is The Alt-left Pipeline A Real Thing?
The whole point of the alt-left pipeline is to serve as commentary on — as well as a counter-attack to — the alt-right pipeline. It takes elements of the alt-right pipeline — like gradually dropping political views into videos that have nothing to do with politics — but instead of spreading hate messages or extremist views, the videos emphasize empathy, inclusivity, and social awareness. The name itself is part of the joke, but it is also a reflection of internet culture: If one side can brand its strategy as a pipeline, why can’t the other?