Something is always happening. Part of the distraction? One thing is for certain; never under-estimate the ability of the masses to sacrifice their liberty for security. They'll offer yours, too if ya don't hold onto it.
It may in fact come to something like that, but a lot has changed since 1775. If you'll go back and review Constitutional amendments, the creation of a standing Army, and a multitude of federal/paramilitary agencies/departments, well, those weren't present in 1775, nor were they in 1860. Not nay-saying, just pointing out things are different, and 1% won't have the effect it did back then.