Political violence in America is no longer a distant fear—it has become part of the national conversation. From the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021, to rising threats against elected officials and community leaders, many Americans feel democracy is more fragile than before. Polls show that concern about violence is growing, with a significant number of citizens believing it could increase in the near future. The question now is what might come next, and whether the country can step back from the brink.
Public opinion polls reveal troubling attitudes. A 2024 survey by the Public Religion Research Institute showed that about 23 percent of Americans agreed with the statement that “true American patriots may have to resort to violence to save the country.” Among Republicans and those aligned with populist movements, the number was even higher.
Most Americans, however, reject violence outright. Roughly 70 percent say political violence is never justified. But the fact that nearly one in four see it as a possibility under certain conditions highlights a cultural and democratic crisis.
Democracies rely on peaceful acceptance of political outcomes. Scholars call this “losers’ consent”—the willingness of political losers to accept election results. If that breaks down, the foundation of democracy becomes unstable.
The normalization of violent language makes this worse. When political leaders or media figures suggest violence is an acceptable way to address grievances, it shifts public attitudes. Over time, fringe ideas can move into the mainstream, creating an environment where violence is seen as a legitimate tool.
The attack on the U.S. Capitol remains the most dramatic example of political violence in recent history. What began as a protest over the 2020 election results escalated into an attempt to halt the certification of votes. Images of rioters storming the halls of Congress shocked the world and remain a defining moment of democratic vulnerability.
Threats against public officials have sharply increased. The U.S. Capitol Police reported thousands of threats each year, with governors, members of Congress, election officials, and even school board members targeted. The 2022 attack on Paul Pelosi, husband of then-Speaker Nancy Pelosi, demonstrated how rhetoric can spill into real-world danger.
Political tensions are not confined to Washington. Heated school board meetings, city council debates, and local protests over public health or cultural issues have sometimes turned violent. This shows that political violence is not just a national crisis but a local one as well.
Media ecosystems have played a major role in spreading anger and mistrust. Social media platforms amplify extreme voices, often circulating misinformation about elections, public health, or government policy. These false claims fuel resentment and, in some cases, calls for violent action.
Partisan news outlets also contribute by reinforcing divisions. Studies show that when people consume only one-sided media, they are more likely to view political opponents as dangerous enemies. This “echo chamber” effect deepens polarization and makes compromise harder.
America’s growing polarization is a major factor. A Pew Research Center study found that about 60 percent of both Republicans and Democrats view members of the opposite party as a threat to the nation’s well-being.
When political opponents are dehumanized, violence becomes easier to justify. History shows that extreme polarization, when paired with mistrust in democratic institutions, increases the risk of conflict.
The words of political leaders matter. When leaders clearly condemn violence, they help reinforce democratic norms. When they fail to do so, or worse, when they encourage violent behavior, the consequences can be serious.
Moments of unity, such as bipartisan condemnations of the 2025 assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, demonstrate that strong leadership can calm tensions. Consistency, however, is key—sporadic calls for peace are not enough if leaders also tolerate violent rhetoric.
Polls show that most Americans expect political violence to rise. A 2025 Gallup survey found that 68 percent of respondents believe politically motivated violence is more likely now than a decade ago. Republicans often link their concerns to distrust in elections, while Democrats point to extremism and authoritarian rhetoric.
The fact that this fear spans both parties shows that Americans of all backgrounds are worried about the stability of the democratic system.
The United States has faced political violence before. The Civil War is the most extreme example, but the 20th century also saw political assassinations, race riots, and violent protests. During the civil rights era, activists endured brutal attacks, while the Vietnam War period included violent clashes between protesters and police.
What makes the current moment unique is that acceptance of political violence is creeping into mainstream political culture. It is not just the work of fringe groups but an idea supported by segments of the broader public.
If current trends continue, experts warn of several risks:
These outcomes are not guaranteed, but they are possible if no corrective steps are taken.
There are steps that could reduce the threat of political violence:
Political violence in America has become a serious concern, reflected in polls, public perception, and recent events. The Capitol riot, threats against officials, and rising hostility in local communities all point to a dangerous trend.
Yet history also shows that America has faced moments of deep division before and found ways to recover. Whether the country can do so again will depend on the actions of leaders, institutions, media, and citizens. Rejecting violence, promoting dialogue, and restoring trust are essential steps.
The future of democracy depends on whether Americans choose to see opponents as enemies or as fellow citizens. Political violence in America does not have to define the nation’s path—it is up to the people to ensure it does not.
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