Poll Finds 26 Million Americans Believe Political Violence is Justified

A new poll by the University of Chicago found that approximately 26 million Americans now believe political violence can be justified under certain circumstances. This data points to the increasing divide and radicalization of political views in the United States. The survey was conducted following a second attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump, heightening concerns about the country’s future.

The study, carried out by the Chicago Project on Security and Threats, indicates that violent rhetoric is no longer limited to fringe elements but has infiltrated mainstream conversations. The poll reveals that 8.5% of Americans think violence is warranted to prevent election fraud in 2024, while over 12% support the use of force to reinstate Trump as president. These sentiments are present in both major political parties, though more prominently among Republicans, especially those disenchanted with the current government.

2.5 minutes of Democrats explicitly advocating political violence.

They are accountable for this. pic.com/cHYdDvqqxS

— Charlie (@MAGACharlie2024) September 16, 2024

Experts warn of an era of anger seeping into political and social realms. Legal scholar Jonathan Turley, discussing these findings, notes that the rise in accepting violence stems from extreme partisan speech. Both ends of the political spectrum contribute to this hazardous climate. Comments from President Biden and Vice President Harris on the peril facing American democracy may have inadvertently fueled this sentiment by intensifying a sense of urgency felt by some.

The implications of this survey extend far beyond statistics, signifying a shift in how Americans view their political system and their readiness to combat perceived threats, even through violent means. A sizable portion of the population now sees political violence as a legitimate tactic—marking a worrying trend that could lead to increased instability leading up to the 2024 presidential election. Instances of political violence have risen over the last decade, with threats against lawmakers increasing significantly. Events like the attack on Paul Pelosi and thwarted attempts on Trump’s life are just the beginning​.

“I want to emphasize that there is no room — and I mean this sincerely… there is absolutely no place for political violence in the United States. None, nothing, never.”

President Biden comments on reported Trump assassination attempt. pic.com/VbIizKzNVE

— MSNBC (@MSNBC) September 16, 2024

This upsurge in violent ideology is not novel but has intensified since 2016, notably after the Black Lives Matter protests and confrontations involving groups like Antifa. Observers point to the normalization of radical language and actions in academia, media, and politics. Some academics have faced criticism for inciting or defending violence, while groups like Antifa have overtly backed aggressive tactics under the guise of protecting democracy​.

Conservative voices, including those from HotAir, argue that the media and liberal leaders are partly responsible for cultivating a charged environment. Repeated warnings about democracy’s impending collapse and demonization of political adversaries have pushed some Americans to view extreme measures as justified. This sentiment is compounded by conservatives who feel besieged by progressive policies and rhetoric​.

Turley cautions that the risk of political violence in the upcoming election is significant and escalating. The nation stands at a critical juncture, with both sides increasingly willing to rationalize violence as a means to an end. The poll underscores the alarming reality that America is grappling with a deepening crisis in political legitimacy. Left unaddressed, these beliefs could lead to more frequent and deadly confrontations​.

As the country approaches 2024, discussions on political violence are likely to heighten. The challenge will be to de-escalate the charged rhetoric and address the grievances fueling these dangerous beliefs before the situation worsens.