*CIA
probably. CIA has grand narratives. For example

“Conspiracy theory’ is a term that strikes fear and anxiety in the hearts of most every public figure, particularly journalists and academics. Since the 1960s the label has become a disciplinary device that has been overwhelmingly effective in defining certain events as off limits to inquiry or debate. Especially in the United States, raising legitimate questions about dubious official narratives destined to inform public opinion (and thereby public policy) is a major thought crime that must be cauterized from the public psyche at all costs… CIA Document 1035-960 played a definitive role in making the ‘conspiracy theory’ term a weapon to be wielded against almost any individual or group calling the government’s increasingly clandestine programs and activities into question.” – From CIA Document 1035-960

I have no doubt that the words authoritarian, crackdown, chilling, and the phrase "at what cost", is being used by the media because an entity (probably the CIA) directed them to do it. IMO "tankie" is a term that is rising. If it were a something you could figuratively bet on like memeeconomy, one would be wise to bet on it being used more to shut down critical thinking.